AMES – Iowa State University’s Extension and Outreach Master Gardener program will again host the Home Gardening webinar series, beginning in January and ending in March.
Designed for anyone interested in gardening or horticulture, the series aims to inspire and enlighten. Throughout the series, attendees will hear from experts from Iowa State, the University of Illinois, North Dakota State University, the Polk County Soil and Water Conservation District, and Reiman Gardens. Sessions are free and open to the public, although registration is required.
Four sessions in January will cover edible topics, including building and using cold frames, growing microgreens indoors, growing and preserving herbs, and designing an edible landscape.
Pruning is one of the most popular presentation topics, so the month of February is all about pruning. Each week, an expert provides detailed guidance on pruning and caring for shade, conifer and apple trees, as well as brambles, shrubs and vines.
In March, the series will conclude with two presentations on the topic of water use. On March 1st, Ed Lyon, director of Reiman Gardens, will speak about Cassian Schmidt-style gravel gardens, which are water-oriented gardens that once planted do not require continuous irrigation. On March 8th, representatives from the Polk County Soil and Water Conservation District and Polk County Public Works will describe rain gardens and rain barrels as strategies for landscapes with excessive water levels.
“The Home Gardening Webinar Series is for everyone, regardless of gardening experience,” said Alicia Herzog, Master Gardener Statewide Coordinator at ISU Extension and Outreach. “The themes selected are based on survey responses from last year’s participants and will appeal to a wide range of viewers. This program was a huge hit with our audiences and we look forward to bringing them another compelling season.”
The series is an educational opportunity for existing master gardeners, those interested in becoming a master gardener, and those who just want to learn more about these subjects.
All webinars will be live with questions and answers at the end. Participation is limited to the first 500 participants. For more information, please contact ISU Extension and Outreach, Buchanan County Director Kara Vance at 319-334-7161 or karav@iastate.edu.
