Garden classes set for March 12, April 9, May 14
Smart Farm, a local organization dedicated to promoting the benefits of sustainable gardening and growing fresh produce for local food pantries, has workshops scheduled to guide you through planning, planting, and caring for your vegetable garden. Come learn why growing vegetables is economical, delicious, nutritious, and fun!
Three workshops planned for March 12, April 9, and May 14 will all be held on Saturday mornings from 10 a.m. to noon.
On March 12, "Growing Veggies from Seed" will explain how to start vegetables indoors and get a jumpstart on the planting season. Starting plants from seed is by far the most economical way to get healthy plants to transplant into your outdoor garden. Recommended pots, soil, lighting, and seed varieties will be discussed.
On April 9, "Preparing Your Vegetable Garden" will be presented. Learn how to get your garden ready to go for the season. Discussion will concentrate on site location, soil preparation, watering methods and pest protection.
Both the March 12 and April 9 workshops will take place at Whole Foods Market on Rand Road in Palatine.
Saturday, May 14 is Family Day when children can plant a Pizza Garden of their very own! Children, ages 5-8, with an accompanying adult, will plant a container pizza garden to take home that day. Included will be the containers, plants, soil, information on caring for the garden, a children's garden journal, and pizza recipe. This workshop will be held at Citizens Park, Barrington.
Go to www.smartfarms.org to register for these workshops and learn more about Smart Farm.
Planned for this summer are programs on Growing Terrific Tomatoes, a Harvest Cooking Class, and a Preservation Workshop that will teach methods to enjoy summer's delicious fruits and vegetables throughout the year. Please watch the web site for information on a June open house to be held at Smart Farm's gardens in Barrington.
Last but certainly not least, Tuesday, March 22 is Community Support Day at Whole Foods Market Palatine. Please support Smart Farm on this day by shopping at Whole Foods from 8 a.m. to 9 pm. Whole Foods will generously donate 5 percent of the day's sales to Smart Farm.