Explore new topics!

8-8:30 a.m. Registration and Refreshments

8:30-9:30 a.m.
Gardening for Good, Landon Brooks, Master Gardener

Imagine nature as a giant quilt, your garden is an important patch of habit, and your shovel as a tool for change. The plants we choose for our own backyards can have a major impact on the biodiversity of our local environments. Learn how to attract and support wildlife by using native plants to garden for good.

9:30-9:40 a.m. Registration and Refreshments

9:40-10:10 a.m.
Companion Planting 101, Kim Atkins, Master Gardener/Master Naturalist

Learn about the well-known tradition of planting known as the "Three Sisters" method. There are many tips and techniques to implement companion planting successfully. We will also discuss polyculture planting, which takes companion planting one step further.

OR

Nature Photography 101, Paul Feldker

Capturing pictures of nature takes a lot of patience and some basic skills. Learn more about camera equipment and settings to help you get the right picture. Plus, we will discuss some do's and dont's to get better pictures. Cameras are optional.

10:20-10:50 am
Thinking Beyond Flowers for Color in the Garden, Elizabeth Wahle, Extension Educator

Flowers are great for adding color to the garden, but what about after the blooms have faded? Join Elizabeth as she discusses how to use and integrate other plant characteristics to maintain visual eye appeal throughout the year.

OR

Nature Remedy
Lisa Dean, Master Gardener/Master Naturalist

You don't have to spend money to find a place of wellness or to destress from a busy life. A walk in the woods, an evening on a porch swing, or just opening a window provides simple ways to refresh your mental and physical health. There is a secret language of nature. You probably have some favorite ways to unwind and have never thought about what you are doing. Granted, new information will be shared, but this will also be an interactive session to share what means most to you.

10:55 a.m.-12 p.m.
Identifying Horticulture Pests and Problems in the Home Garden, Elizabeth Wahle, Extension Educator

Part of managing a garden pest or problem begins with proper identification. Join Elizabeth as she discusses some of the more interesting pests and problems encountered by gardeners in the Midwest.

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University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to attend, please contact the local Extension office at 618-939-3434.