Welcome to Tomato Girl Gardens
where urban meets eden
Transforming Chicago from the Outside, In
Tomato Girl Gardens is dedicated to transforming Chicago and Chicagoland's urban spaces into vibrant, sustainable gardens. Our approach combines creativity and eco-friendly practices to bring nature into the city. To empower the community, we offer a range of educational programs, including coaching services, workshops, and school programs. These initiatives are designed to help Chicagoans learn how to garden, with a focus on sustainable practices and the benefits of native plants. Let's work together to cultivate green, inviting environments that thrive in urban settings.
Tomato Girl's Roots
Founder
ErinKay Foley
My journey into gardening and sustainability began on my grandma’s farm, where I spent countless hours learning about plants and the rhythms of nature. Growing up in Chicago, my family continued this tradition by cultivating a garden in our backyard, believing it was a essential part of our home. While teaching, I realized that not all students had the same experiences, so I founded Tomato Girl Gardens to share the joys and lessons of gardening. I aim to inspire young minds to connect with the earth, fostering a sense of responsibility, patience and creativity through sustainable practices.