Saturday with a Master Gardener Series is offered by the Illinois Extension Whiteside County Master Gardeners. Explore the world of gardening the second Saturday of each month starting February 2023 at the Whiteside Extension office, 12923 Lawrence Rd. Sterling from 10 a.m. to noon. Gain knowledge on hydrangeas, milkweed, seed collecting and much more.
April 15, 2023 | “Here today, gone tomorrow!” - While life lasts! This can be a very brief moment in time for a spring ephemeral, the start of a new growing season. As the first plants to emerge and bloom they have special value.
All dates in series: February 2023 -November 2023
February 11, 2023 | “I Drank WHAT!!!”– Pick your poison, and get to know the more infamous plants and their toxins. Know which plants are dangerous and protect your family, pets, and animals.
March 11, 2023 | “Good Gracious! Great balls of flowers!” – Most people remember Hydrangeas from their childhood, today we are falling in love with them all over again. And the good news, we can now grow many varieties and colors.
April 15, 2023 | “Here today, gone tomorrow!” - While life lasts! This can be a very brief moment in time for a spring ephemeral, the start of a new growing season. As the first plants to emerge and bloom they have special value.
June 10, 2023 | “The colonel used 11, how ‘bout you!” – Herbs vs spices: Do you know the difference? Both herbs and spices add flavor to your food. Learn the difference between them and their common and not-so-common uses.
July 8, 2023 | “Got Milk!” – What is often considered a common weed, has some very uncommon characteristics. Discover the unknown value of the common milkweed. Learn about the different types of milkweed you can grow to help future generations of pollinators.
August 12, 2023 | “How many different flowers grow…” – Discover the Whiteside County Master Gardeners demonstration Sun Garden.
September 9, 2023 | “To everything there is a season.” – The key to low-maintenance and low-cost gardening, is to grow a variety of plants that readily self-seed. Collecting seeds is not only fun, but also a great way to save yourself some cash! Hear the ins and outs of seed collecting, saving, and sowing.
October 14, 2023 | “Say OK to the Bowkay!” –Learn the ins and outs of floral arranging, and make your own display to take home. - $10 supply fee
November 11, 2023 | “A rose by any other name….!” – Discover the Elizabethan Garden revealed in Shakespeare’s plays.
