About QBG Farm
Founded in 2013, QBG Farm is an on-site program that demonstrates the link between sustainable farming and urban composting in the heart of Queens. The Farm invites the public to participate in growing food and to learn about the importance of soil health. QBG Farm utilizes compost made on-site by the NYC Compost Project (NYCCP) hosted by Queens Botanical Garden out of food scraps, yard clippings, woodchips, and leaves. Using compost encourages growth of beneficial fungi and bacteria in the soil and gives plants and soil necessary nutrients from a natural source. To complete the nutrient cycle, spent plants from the Farm are composted and used to rebuild the soil for the following season.
Vegetables and fruit grown on the Farm are produced using only organic practices to limit the impact on the surrounding ecosystem. All produce grown at the Farm is donated to local food pantries to aid in our community’s food insecurity. In 2021, we donated over 5,000 lbs. of produce to local food pantries!
Crops grown at the Farm include heirloom tomatoes, peppers, corn, squash, a variety of root vegetables and greens such as kale, lettuces, and spinach. The Farm aims to include varieties that are culturally relevant to the diversity of Queens.
Get involved!
QBG Farm strives to teach New Yorkers about urban farming, food systems, food justice, and environmental stewardship – all central tenets of QBG’s sustainability and healthy living programs. Experience the Farm as a volunteer, intern, or workshop participant!
Volunteer at QBG Farm
Help prepare the Farm to grow produce that we distribute to food pantries in supporting our communities with food relief. Join QBG’s Farm staff for an engaging, educational event where you will learn gardening basics and work hands-on with plants. Make new friends and put your green thumb to good use in a variety of seasonal projects.
Depending on the season and need, garden activities might include raking, mulching, weeding, planting, garden bed maintenance, pruning, harvesting, and more. Volunteers learn how to foster a farm ecosystem and grow healthy crops!
Tuesdays, April through November, 9:30am to 12pm
For corporate volunteer opportunities at the Farm click HERE.
QBG Farm Internship
Each year the Farm welcomes interns to work side by side with Farm staff for the growing season. Farm interns must be able to commit to a minimum of two workdays per week over a three-month period between April and November. The internship is paid through a biweekly stipend. Interns will gain invaluable experience working in urban agriculture. Prior experience gardening or farming is preferred but not necessary. Interns are also encouraged to research funding opportunities through their learning institutions.
To apply for the QBG Farm Internship, please send a resume and cover letter to [email protected]. For any questions, please contact us!
Become a QBG Farm Guide
Farm Guides engage visitors by leading tours during open hours at the Farm. Perfect for people with knowledge of plants and plant ecosystems, a willingness to grow and learn, and a friendly demeanor. Guides should have strong communication skills, interest in environmental sustainability, love to engage with nature, and excited to share their enthusiasm for the Garden with visitors. Some experience leading tours or public speaking is preferred.
Available Shifts: June through September, Saturdays and Sundays, 10am to 1pm and 12 to 3pm
Click HERE to apply to become a Farm Guide!
For any questions about the QBG Farm internship, volunteering opportunities, or group tours, please contact [email protected] or call 718-886-3800 ext. 262
The QBG Farm was initially established and operated with funding from the New York City Department of Sanitation. We thank the following donors who continue to support the QBG Farm:
Robert F. Schumann Foundation
American Public Gardens Association
New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets
Victor C. and Clara C. Battin Foundation
Amazin’ Mets Foundation
City Gardens Club