Determining Barriers to Use of Edible School Gardens in Illinois

Objective: The objective of this study was to gather data regarding the awareness, perceived benefits, interest in, and barriers to establishment of edible school gardens in Illinois public schools. Method: Setting/Design: This study used an online survey design. Participants: Participants included Illinois public elementary school principals and superintendents. Variables measured: Region and community population, current edible garden use, perception (Likert scale) of garden benefits, interest in establishment of a school edible garden, and barriers to establishment of a school edible garden were the variables of interest. Analyses: Logit regression and Kruskal-Wallis with follow-up where p < 0.05 were performed. Results: Elementary school principals and superintendents are aware of gardens and their potential benefits to students, but many barriers exist that make their use challenging. Funding, staff and volunteer support, and class time were identified as the major barriers. Region affected likelihood of garden use, and community population size also affected the odds of having an edible school garden. Conclusion and implications: Data suggest that edible garden use would increase with provision of resources and organization of dedicated supporters.