Gardens at Tidewater Farm

The University of Maine Gardens at Tidewater Farm, in Falmouth, promote the Harvest for Hunger Program and provide education opportunities for children and adults. This Master Gardener project grew more than 1,500 pounds of produce during the 2025 gardening season and donated it to Wayside Food Programs for distribution to local food pantries and community meals programs, hosted a variety of educational events, and provided needed space for hands-on learning.

Tidewater demonstration gardens with painted mural in background
Photo credit: Pamela Hargest

Visit the Gardens

The gardens are open daily to the public from sunrise to sunset. All are welcome to come visit and enjoy the gardens with a beautiful view of the Presumpscot River. Often you will see a Master Gardener Volunteer working in the garden; please feel free to ask them any questions you may have.

We invite you to explore the Gardens through:

  • Self-guided walks
  • Attending a workshop or event
  • Bird-watching
  • Simply relaxing and taking in the view!

Please be respectful of all instructors and students while educational programs and workshops are taking place, and please do not interfere with any wildlife.

Areas of the Garden

  • All American Selections Display Garden
  • Children’s Garden
  • Cottage Garden
  • Gathering Circle
  • High Tunnel
  • Market Garden
  • Norm Steele Harvest for Hunger Garden
  • Orchard
  • Pollinator Garden
  • Portland Trails

Mission

The mission of the UMaine Gardens at Tidewater Farm is to provide community agricultural and horticultural education through research-based, environmentally friendly gardening practices. We foster a welcoming space for gardeners of all ages and skill levels, with a focus on sustainable food production, ecologically compatible landscapes, and outdoor learning.

The UMaine Gardens at Tidewater Farm are entirely self-funded, so your support truly makes a difference. Every donation helps care for and improve the gardens while supporting community programs that showcase the best of gardening in Maine. Your generosity helps keep these gardens thriving and accessible for all to enjoy.

Support the UMaine Gardens at Tidewater Farm

Donations can be made online or with a check payable to the University of Maine.

Donate Online

Mail checks to: UMaine Extension, 75 Clearwater Drive, Suite 104, Falmouth, ME 04105

Sponsors

As a self-funded project, we are always seeking sponsors! If your business is interested in sponsoring our public garden, please contact Pamela Hargest at pamela.hargest@maine.edu.

For More Information

Contact Pamela Hargest, UMaine Extension, at pamela.hargest@maine.edu.