Greenhouse, an Urban Horticulture Education Center in Billings, Montana
Growing Food. Inspiring Students. Building Community.
As an Urban Horticulture Education Center, we are transforming the way Billings grows food, teaches sustainability, and connects generations. Located in the heart of downtown Billings, our innovative greenhouse combines cutting-edge growing technology, environmental stewardship, and hands-on education to create meaningful experiences for people of all ages.
From producing fresh organic produce for St. John’s United to welcoming hundreds of students each year, the Greenhouse is cultivating a healthier, greener future for our community.
St. John’s United Greenhouse, by the Numbers
- 2,600 plants grown at a time
- 95% less water used than traditional farming
- 100% solar-powered operations
- 100% rainwater and snowmelt irrigation
- 1,500+ students served since 2022
- Residents and community volunteers actively involved year-round
Growing Food Sustainably
The Greenhouse produces fresh organic lettuce and herbs for St. John’s United culinary services using advanced aeroponic growing systems. By combining vertical farming, renewable energy, and water conservation practices, the Greenhouse demonstrates how sustainable agriculture can thrive in an urban environment.
Despite being located in Montana’s high-plains desert climate, the greenhouse operates year-round, producing fresh crops while minimizing its environmental impact.
Sustainability Features
- Vertical aeroponic growing systems
- Soil-free food production
- Rainwater and snowmelt collection
- On-site solar energy generation
- Year-round growing capabilities
- Biodegradable growing materials
What Is Aeroponics?
Aeroponics is an innovative growing method that allows plants to thrive with minimal water use. Unlike traditional hydroponic systems, where roots remain submerged in water, aeroponic systems suspend roots in the air and deliver nutrient-rich water through a fine mist.
This highly efficient approach offers significant benefits: Uses up to 95% less water than traditional farming, requires no soil, maximizes growing space through vertical production, supports year-round growing, reduces environmental impact, and produces healthy, high-quality crops.
Our greenhouse utilizes 50 aeroponic towers capable of growing up to 52 plants each, allowing us to cultivate as many as 2,600 plants simultaneously.
Inspiring Future Farmers and Environmental Stewards
Since opening in 2022, as an Urban Horticulture Education Center, the Greenhouse has partnered with Billings School District 2 to provide hands-on learning opportunities that connect students with agriculture, sustainability, and healthy food systems.
Third Grade Farm Experiences
Students visit twice each semester to plant, grow, and harvest lettuce while learning about agriculture and sustainability.
Journeys Academy
Students from Journeys Academy at Lincoln Center visit weekly to learn about urban agriculture while participating in the day-to-day operations of the farm.
West High Special Education Vocational Program
Selected students work in the greenhouse four days per week, developing workplace skills, confidence, and hands-on experience.
Career Center Partnerships
Agriculture students participate in job shadowing and internship opportunities.
Building Community Across Generations
Residents and community volunteers play an essential role in supporting greenhouse operations and educational programming, creating meaningful opportunities for mentorship and shared learning.
Our Story
The Greenhouse, an Urban Horticulture Education Center, began in 2019 when the Gainan family donated their iconic floral and gift shop on 30th Street in downtown Billings to St. John’s United. Built in 1986, the facility included a state-of-the-art greenhouse that became the foundation for a new vision of sustainable food production, environmental education, and community engagement.
Cultivating a Healthier Future
Through innovative agriculture, environmental education, and meaningful community partnerships, the Greenhouse, an Horticulture Education Center, is growing far more than fresh produce. We are cultivating curiosity, stewardship, and connection for generations to come.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is an Urban Horticulture Education Center (UHEC)?
The UHEC is a sustainable urban farm and educational greenhouse operated by St. John’s United in downtown Billings.
What crops do you grow?
We primarily grow organic lettuce and culinary herbs.
What is aeroponic farming?
Aeroponics is a growing method in which plant roots are suspended in the air and nourished by a nutrient-rich mist.
How much water does the greenhouse use?
Our aeroponic towers use approximately 95% less water than traditional farming methods.
Is the greenhouse environmentally sustainable?
Yes. Operations are supported by solar-generated electricity, rainwater and snowmelt collection, water-efficient aeroponic growing, and biodegradable materials.
How many plants can the UHEC grow at one time?
Up to 2,600 plants simultaneously.
How do students participate?
Students participate through field trips, weekly learning experiences, vocational placements, internships, and job-shadow opportunities.
Which schools and programs partner with the UHEC?
Billings School District 2, Journeys Academy, West High Special Education Vocational Program, and Career Center Agriculture Programs.
How many students have participated?
More than 1,500 students since 2022.
Can community members volunteer?
Absolutely. Volunteers help support greenhouse operations and educational activities.
Can I schedule a tour?
Yes. Contact St. John’s United for tour availability.
How does the produce benefit St. John’s United?
Fresh lettuce and herbs are used by St. John’s culinary services.
Why is the UHEC important to the community?
It combines sustainable agriculture, environmental education, workforce development, and intergenerational engagement.
Greenhouse in the News
Follow our Greenhouse TikTok for the latest videos, updates, and behind-the-scenes content.
Contact Us
Address: 502 N 30th St., Billings, MT 59101
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