The Backyard Garden is an Extension Master Gardener demonstration garden here in Johnson County. It is located at the Olathe Horticulture Research and Extension Center south of De Soto. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the start of this garden.
Why is it so special? This garden showcases research-based, sustainable techniques that can be replicated for home gardeners to grow their own fruits and vegetables in their backyard. Fruit trees, blueberry bushes, squash, cucumbers, herbs, cut flowers, and much more are grown in this 1-acre area.
What happens to all this food that is grown here? It gets donated to local food pantries to strengthen our local food systems and combat food insecurity in Johnson County. Are you aware that 1 in 5 Johnson County children is food insecure? In 2024 alone, this productive space donated over 6,000 lbs of fresh, healthy harvest to local food banks.
Typically, this garden is only open during Extension Master Gardener workdays or by appointment. However, on Sept. 6 from 10 am to 1 pm, the Extension Master gardeners are hosting a special open house celebrating 20 years of impact, education, and community connection at the Backyard Garden. This is your chance to explore this vibrant living classroom, featuring research-based techniques for growing vegetables, herbs, fruits, pollinator-friendly plants, and native species — all in a home-garden setting.
Registration is requested so we can plan for a great day. Let’s celebrate 20 years of garden magic together.
Registration link: Backyard Garden 20th Anniversary Celebration