HSA Samull Grants - herb gardens for classrooms

Congratulations to all 2026 Samull Grant Award Winners!

Basalt Elementary School, Basalt, CO
Bluff Park Elementary School, Hoover, Al
Clear Dot Charter School, Columbia, SC
Columbia Elementary School, Decatur, GA
Forest Glen Elementary, School of Spanish Immersion, Indianapolis, IN
Ft. Sanders Educational Development Center, Knoxville, TN
Guajome Park Academy, Vista, CA
Helms Elementary School, Houston, TX
Native American Advancement Foundation, Tucson, AZ
PS 65-Mother Hale Academy, Bronx, NY
Scenic Hills Elementary School, Memphis, TN
Shirland School District, Shirland, IL
St. Stephens Academy at Glade Run, Zelienople, PA
Waimea Elementary School, Waimea, HI
West Broad Street YMCA, (Gadsden Elementary School) Savannah, GA

How to Apply in 2026

In 2027, the Herb Society of America will award 15 grants to schools for planting, expanding or improving an herb garden. Established more than a decade ago from the generous gift of Don Samull, an elementary school teacher, the grant now awards $500 for the purchase of supplies such as soil, plants, and gardening tools. Applications will be accepted from August 1, 2026 through October 1, 2026. Awards will be announced January 2027.

The benefits of the Samull Grant extend beyond learning garden skills and how to grow and care for herbs. Reports from grant recipients described increased community involvement which strengthened connections and teamwork among faculty, staff, students and their families. The herb gardens help increase the students’ connection to their schools and to their ethnic heritage. Gardening often introduces them to herbs and how the plants can enhance lives through culinary uses and for wellness. Participation in the planning and planting of the herb gardens help strengthen math and creative thinking skills. 

Before you begin the application, gather images, garden designs, seed and supply lists - anything that you think may help bring your herb garden vision to life! If you have a Gmail account you will easily be able to upload directly into the application. If you do not have a Gmail account, you can send files to grants@herbsociety.org  

Classrooms awarded the grant will be required to submit:

• A written report not to exceed 500 words, including a written description of any successes and challenges experienced.
• A minimum of two digital photos of the project’s progress, the garden and/or students working in the garden. Please do NOT send photos that cannot be posted publicly on herbsociety.org or on related social media.
• Updates throughout the project and/or notes from the children on what students have learned are appreciated and encouraged but not required.