Obstacles for school garden program success: Expert consensus to inform policy and practice

School Garden Prevalence Before and After the Implementation of the Healthy Hunger‐Free Kids Act

“…An example of that is reported by Hazzard et al, 39 who compared schools applying for the California Instructional School Garden Program with those that did not, and found that almost two thirds of nonapplicants were unaware of the grant. Another constraint is lack of availability of teachers' and school staff members' time, which makes it difficult for them to take on additional (often unpaid) tasks, such as taking care of a school garden on a regular basis 34,37,39,43,44 . Further, in the context of the current study, considering that New Jersey has cold winters, there are only 2 short seasons (Fall and Spring) where students could work in the garden, potentially affecting the incentive of having a garden.…”

“…Based on the US Department of Agriculture data, in fiscal year 2013, only 71 garden projects were funded in the United States 33 . Although there has been tremendous interest in school gardens, inadequate skills and knowledge among school personnel have been considered a barrier to having a school garden 34 . While funds from HHFKA include provisions for technical assistance, 17 which can provide the necessary training for school garden program personnel, 23 further research is needed to evaluate if this type of assistance adequately meets the needs of schools in diverse communities.…”

“…While funds from HHFKA include provisions for technical assistance, 17 which can provide the necessary training for school garden program personnel, 23 further research is needed to evaluate if this type of assistance adequately meets the needs of schools in diverse communities. In addition, there is ample evidence showing that community stakeholders are critical for creating, maintaining, and sustaining a successful garden program 34‐39 . These stakeholders are also crucial for securing funding for a school garden program 35,36,39 .…”

“…33 Although there has been tremendous interest in school gardens, inadequate skills and knowledge among school personnel have been considered a barrier to having a school garden. 34 While funds from HHFKA include provisions for technical assistance, 17…”

“…In addition, there is ample evidence showing that community stakeholders are critical for creating, maintaining, and sustaining a successful garden program. [34][35][36][37][38][39] These stakeholders are also crucial for securing funding for a school garden program. 35,36,39 Sustaining high levels of engagement among unpaid staff or community members often depends on individuals who can bring together stakeholders and resources.…”