Spring classes help gardeners prepare to plant

If you're eager to get your hands dirty in your garden, you may want to fill your time until planting season with classes in the spring series of University of Illinois Extension's Four Seasons Gardening program.

Registration is open for the three classes in the series, which begins next month. The programs cover a variety of topics such as growing herbs, bargain gardening, and pest control. All are taught by University of Illinois Extension experts and will be presented via statewide teleconference at the DuPage County office, 1100 E. Warrenville Road, Suite 170, Naperville.

In the opening class, Jim Schmidt will present "The Basics of Growing Herbs" from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 10. Everyone has probably encountered herbs in some way in their life - either through food, cosmetics, medicines or crafts. Herbs are ideal for the landscape because of their interesting textures and utility, and are natural additions to a vegetable or patio garden. This session will look at common herbs and their characteristics and will focus on how to grow, when to harvest and potential savory uses.

"Pest Control Strategies in the Garden" will be led by David Robson from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, April 22. Everyone ends up with weeds, insects and diseases in their yards, often attacking anything from lawns to flowers to trees to vegetables and fruits. Some can be serious, others are just be annoying. Some can easily be controlled, others may require some effort. This program will help the home gardener choose the best options for managing those pests while protecting the environment.

The spring series wraps up with "Bargain Gardening" led by Rhonda Ferree from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, May 6. Homeowners should not let a limited budget keep them out of the garden. Participants will find out how gardens can be simple and fun, while learning gardening tips and ideas that will save time and money.

There is a fee of $10 to attend each session. Registration is required one week prior to the program you want to attend. To register online visit web.extension.illinois.edu/dkk/hort.html, or call (630) 955-1123 for information. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, please notify at registration.

For information on the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener program in DuPage County, contact Sarah Navrotski at sarahnav@illinois.edu or visit web.extension.illinois.edu/dkk/.