What better place to “grow” treasured family memories than in a garden? Gardens provide opportunities for adult family members to pass along traditions, knowledge, and skills to the next generation (or share the experience of developing skills if new to gardening). Young people bring their contagious enthusiasm for learning and life, exciting everyone involved in the growing process.

Need help getting started? Download our tips (PDF) for a successful intergenerational garden.

Recognizing the power of gardens to connect individuals of all ages socially, culturally, and emotionally, the H. J. Heinz Company is proud to sponsor the Heinz Wholesome Memories Intergenerational Garden Award, designed to foster family focused garden efforts in communities across the country. The award will provide 57 families with a $500 award package containing the tools needed to embark on a successful gardening adventure that will foster lasting intergenerational memories while growing wholesome food.

Who is eligible to apply: The award is open to any adult in the United States who wishes to garden with preschool to high school-aged family member(s) and feels that gardening is a great way to build lasting memories.

Applications are due by January 10, 2010.