
Modern Homesteading Series
Whether you live in the third story of an apartment or on a 10-acre plot of land, homesteading skills can help bring you and your family closer to the food you eat. Collecting eggs, tending the garden, canning, drying herbs - all these things and so much more can help you in your everyday life to become more connected to your food, family, and community.
This past year, we offered monthly programs related to modern homesteading. We're excited to announce plans for another series in 2025! Come to one, come to a few, attend them all - there's something for everyone in this series!
2025 Modern Homesteading Program Schedule
Scheduled Topics
The following programs have been scheduled for the 2025 season. The series is free and open to the public. Unless otherwise noted, all events will be held at the Jackson County Extension office at 402 Ava Rd. in Murphysboro.
- Introduction to Modern Homesteading - Jan 21
- Introduction to fruit trees - Jan. 16
- Introduction to small fruits - March 11
- Modern Homesteading Book Club - Feb 11, 25, and March 11, 25
- Canning Strawberry Jam - March 27
- Composting - April 1
- Seed Saving - June 3
- Seed Saving - June 10
- Organic Gardening - July 15
- Giving the Gift of Flowers - August 12

Canning Strawberry Jam
Growing produce can be a rewarding task but can be difficult to enjoy before the harvest spoils. In this hands on workshop you'll learn the basics of canning and how to can strawberry jam.

Composting
Compost can improve your soil health and structure by adding organic matter to help bring in beneficial organisms. Join us for a program on composting and learn more about the benefits of using compost in your garden.

Seed Saving
Seed saving is a great way to utilize plants and flowers growing in your garden for future planting. Learn about how to collect seeds, store them and the stratification process during one of the two seed saving programs.
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