If you think money grows on trees, you may be right. Or at least, maybe you can get grant money to grow trees!

Several sponsors and gardening associations offer grants throughout the year, typically for schools or non-profit community groups that have a vision for a gardening project but just need a little head-start in the way of funding. Here is a list of a few, along with application deadline information. This should help you and your group get started thinking about a community improvement or education project that will let you all play in the dirt...for free.

Fiskars Project Orange Thumb
Twenty groups will receive up to $1,500 in Fiskar tools and up to $800 in green gardening materials. The mission is to encourage creative expression in gardening. All kinds of community groups, schools, and church groups are eligible.
Application: Available now online. All materials due February 17, 2009.

Wild Ones Seeds for Education Grants
K-12 schools or parent groups associated with schools can receive up to $5,000 toward projects with a permanent impact such as facility enhancement (both indoor and outdoor) as well as landscaping/clean up type projects. Projects that encourage parent involvement and build stronger community spirit will be favored. Examples projects include reading gardens, vegetable gardens and nature trails.
Application: Lowe’s will accept up to 1,500 applications for consideration. Application period ends when either 1,500 applications are received, or February 13, 2009, whichever is earlier.

Wild Ones Seeds for Education Grants
Schools, nature centers, churches, and non-profit education centers are eligible for $100-500 grants to encourage natural landscaping with native plants.
Application: Due November 15 each year, awarded in February.

The following grants are available through the National Gardening Association:

Bayer Advanced Grow Together with Roses School Garden Awards will provide rose bushes and educational materials to 25 schools to establish rose gardens designed to nurture peaceful relations and instill a strong sense of community.
Application: Due January 23, 2009

Mantis Awards
25 programs will each receive a Mantis Tiller/Cultivator (a $349 value, although they're currently on sale on Amazon.com for $250) with border/edger and kickstand, and their choice of gas-powered or electric motor. The grant is open to any non-profit group with a gardening program that enhances the quality of life in the community. Past recipients have included schools, churches, correctional facilities, parks departments, youth camps, community gardens, and many others.
Application: Due March 1, 2009.

Hooked on Hydroponics Awards include hydroponic garden systems, lighting, and reference materials for elementary, middle and high schools.
Application: Available in February, due in fall 2009.

Healthy Sprouts Awards are given to organizations that create youth garden programs that focus on nutrition and hunger issues.
Application: Available in February, due in fall 2009