Written by Rhonda Ferree, retired horticulture educator
In 2015, 163 Master Gardener volunteers contributed 12,863 hours in the Fulton, Mason, Peoria, and Tazewell Counties. Their volunteer service is valued at $296,749 (using an estimated dollar value of volunteer time of $23.07 per hour as calculated by Independent Sector).
Master Gardeners have several large events scheduled in our four county Extension Unit.
Stop by their informational booth at the Peoria Home Show on February 26-28 in the Peoria Civic Center. They will answer general gardening questions, provide information to those interested in being a Master Gardener, and distribute informational brochures and bookmarks.
The 17th Annual Gardeners' BIG Day is scheduled for Saturday, April 30 at Spoon River College in Canton. Attendees will hear speakers, visit vendors, see gardening displays, and tour the campus grounds and gardens. Register early because this fills very quickly.
Another event that fills very quickly is Tazewell County's Plant Bingo, scheduled for June 2 at the Morton Knights of Columbus at 6:30 pm. This is a fun evening spent socializing with gardening enthusiasts, sharing stories, and learning about all kinds of plants....all while playing bingo. Doors open at 5 p.m. Space is limited and this event is very popular, so plan to arrive early.
Peoria Master Gardeners invite you to join them for a free informational garden program. Held on the third Wednesday of each month at 12:30 for social time and speaker at 1:00 p.m. Programs are held at the University of Illinois Extension office in Peoria at 4810 North Sheridan unless otherwise indicated.
Some events are still in the planning stage. Each year Master Gardeners have information booths at various Farmers Markets. In 2015 those included the Peoria Riverfront Market, Canton market on the square, and E. Peoria market.
The Peoria Master Gardeners educate about specific plants each year during their Plant Sale. Usually held in May, this sale includes many herbs, vegetables, and flowers grown by the Master Gardeners. Plants go very quickly, so watch for the date and arrive early!
Join us at a program near you. More information about all of our University of Illinois Extension programs is available at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/fmpt or by calling 309-543-3308
309-543-3308.
MEET THE AUTHOR
As horticulture educator, Rhonda Ferree inspired citizens in local communities to grow their own food and improve their home landscapes. She focused on high quality, impactful programs that taught homeowners how to create energy-efficient landscapes using sustainable practices that increase property values and help the environment.
After 30 years with University of Illinois Extension, Rhonda retired in 2018. She continues to share her passion for horticulture related topics as “Retro Rhonda” on social media.
ABOUT THE BLOG
ILRiverHort is a blog that helps people connect to nature and grow.