North Austin YMCA has a new community garden that offers plots for residents to do their own gardening.

The North Austin Community Garden, located at 1000 W. Rundberg Lane, has 30 small plots and seven larger plots for residents to begin gardening this spring. YMCA also offers ADA-accessible plots for those with limited mobility.

Seventy-five percent of the total plots were available on a first-come, first-serve basis when registration began March 5. Eleanor Provias, North Austin YMCA youth and family director, said all plots have registration waiting lists except for the ADA-accessible plots, of which there are five still available. Everyone on the waiting lists will be put into a raffle for the remaining 25 percent of plots. Residents are encouraged to register for a place in the garden, Provias said. Gardeners are required to volunteer at least one hour per month in the community garden.

Fees must be paid at the time of registration, and financial assistance is available based on demonstrated need. Proof of income is required when applying for financial assistance. Fees contribute to utility bills and maintenance of the garden and gardening tools. Provias said garden rates will be prorated for 2014, and fees will be a bit less than the prices listed below.

Individual plots: $50–$90 per year

ADA-accessible plots: $37.50 per year

The first two organic gardening classes at North Austin YMCA will be held March 22 and 29. The Sustainable Food Center's basic organic gardening class series includes information about growing techniques, pest control, growing seasons and vegetable varieties. To register for the class, visit www.austinymca.org or register in person at North Austin YMCA. The rest of the class schedule has not yet been announced. Provias said the YMCA is also interested in hosting cooking classes, but a schedule has not yet been made.

To register for a plot or for more information, call 512-973-9622 or email Provias, [email protected]. To view the YMCA's North Austin Community Garden frequently asked questions page, visit the website.