Get degree in 'Gardenology' in Geneva

After a winter that seemed like it would never end, green thumbs are itching to get into the garden.

They can pick up tips on the latest trends Saturday at "Gardenology" in Geneva.

The Tomato Lady will discuss how you can raise heirloom varieties of the fruit in even the smallest yard. Other experts will give advice on 54 topics, from making your own compost to skin care for gardeners, at stores throughout downtown Geneva.

The advice-givers come from businesses, nurseries, garden clubs, Morton Arboretum, community-supported farms, Cantigny Park, the University of Illinois Master Gardener program, the American Hosta Society, the American Iris Society and more.

"Gardenology" was conceived by Deb Hilton and Sue Hadley, sisters who own the Country Naturals store.

"We are both gardeners, and like to be outdoors. We thought it would be nice to have an event (about gardening)," Hadley said. "Because it is becoming such a big part of people's lives now, with 'going green' and going back to basics."

They approached two other business people - Jane Briner of Persimmon Tree and Larry Kaspar of Town and Country Gardens - and "it kind of grew to be huge," Hadley said.

"Everybody is just ready to get out in the yard."

The Geneva Beautification Committee, which maintains the garden beds and planters throughout downtown, is auctioning off a quilt. And the Geneva Natural Resources Committee will show how you can use a rain barrel to collect water to sustain your garden instead of turning on a hose to water the weigela.

All presenters and vendors will be stationed outside of shops and on the lawn of the Kane County Courthouse from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Volunteers in green T-shirts will direct visitors, and maps will be available at an information booth on the courthouse lawn and at shops and the Geneva History Center, 113 S. Third St.

For more information, call Country Naturals at (630) 232-1172. A list of presentations is available at genevadowntown.org.