Employees at Quantum Controls, Inc. in Chanhassen, Minn., started a vegetable garden outside their back door in 2009, carefully tending their 35 X 75 plot on breaks and after work.

“The garden is a huge hit,” said HR Manager Wendy Eggers. “Everyone pitches in with the watering and helps with the weeding. There is a lot of pride, sharing of information and garden tips, as a result of our garden. We even have vendors who ask to see the garden progress when they come here.”

The garden is a continuation of other steps Quantum has taken to eat healthy in the workplace. The winter prior to starting its garden, Quantum participated in a four-week Fruit and Veggie Challenge, coordinated by its county public health department. Employees tried new produce and increased their daily intake of raw fruits and vegetables. Out of 22 competing worksites, Quantum placed in the top three for highest average points earned among participating employees.