How Tower Gardens Are Changing Lives at Volusia County Jail

When you think of a jail, fresh greens and thriving gardens probably aren’t the first things that come to mind. But at Volusia County Jail, Tower Gardens have become a game-changer—giving inmates a chance to learn new skills, enjoy fresh food, and even de-stress. Lieutenant Kastner shares why they chose Tower Gardens and how they’ve made a lasting impact.

Why Tower Gardens?

When looking for ways to inspire inmates to grow their own food and embrace a healthier lifestyle, the choice was clear—Tower Gardens! Here’s why:

✅ Fast growth: Since many inmates have short stays, they can see an entire growth cycle before leaving. Instant gratification, garden-style!

✅ Easy setup & maintenance: No green thumb? No problem! These systems take the guesswork out of growing, making it simple for beginners to succeed.

✅ Hands-on learning: Inmates gain real-life skills they can use beyond their time at the facility, opening doors to new opportunities.

More Than Just Gardening—A Fresh Start

The impact goes beyond just growing food. The Tower Gardens have been a major stress reliever, especially for the female inmates who maintain them. Watching something grow and thrive under their care is not only therapeutic but also empowering.

The benefits don’t stop there—produce from the jail’s Tower Farm is also donated to the local Domestic Abuse Council and BEACH House, helping nourish the community.

What’s Growing in Volusia’s Tower Farm?

Right now, 50 Tower Gardens at the Volusia County Jail are filled with lush, leafy lettuce. But over the years, the jail has successfully grown a variety of veggies and herbs, proving that this method is a winner every time.

Ready to Start Your Own Tower Farm?

If you’ve been thinking about starting a Tower Garden project—whether for a school, community center, or even your backyard—we can help you plan and implement your very own Tower Farm!

📩 Contact us today to learn how to get started! 🌱