Interested in getting an herb garden started or expanding your knowledge on how to use the herbs you grow? Join the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners at 6:30 p.m. on June 14 at Westview Park for their free program, "A Dozen Culinary Herbs and How to Grow Them."

Westview Park is located at 405 W. Seventh St. in Gridley.

Seasoned Master Gardeners Trish Morrison and Lucy Kelley are well-known for their expertise in flower, vegetable, and herb gardening as well as for their cooking and baking skills. Each has their own herb garden and frequently use herbs in their recipes. For this program, Trish and Lucy will focus on ten commonly used culinary herbs: basil, chives, oregano, sage, thyme, French tarragon, rosemary, parsley, cilantro and garlic, as well as two less frequently used herbs – mint and stevia.

Because herbs are easy to grow, they are a good introduction to gardening for beginners. They require little space and can be grown in containers. However, most gardeners would like to know more ways on how to use them. This program will present guidelines for growing, cooking with, and preserving these herbs for future use. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample a variety of herbal recipes, including bread, cookies, a spread and a drink.

For more information, please call the McLean County Extension Office at 309-663-8306. There is no need to register in advance to attend this program. University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment.If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, please contact the McLean County Extension Office.