MONTICELLO, Ill. – Gardeners looking to create a butterfly haven can pick up helpful tips from entomologist Dr. Michael Jeffords. This co-author of Butterflies of Illinois: A Field Guide, will be the keynote speaker at Gardeners’ Day on April 2 in Monticello. Dr. Michael Jeffords is a retired entomologist from the Prairie Research Institute, Illinois Natural History Survey, University of Illinois. He is a freelance writer, photographer, and along with his wife, Susan Post, a world traveler and explorer. Together they have visited every continent except Antarctica, photographing and writing about the world’s vanishing Edens.
Beginners as well as seasoned gardeners will learn something new at this fun and informative event. Educators from across Illinois will discuss butterfly gardening, living with wildlife, native tree species, and more.
Gardeners’ Day is hosted by Piatt County Master Gardeners and will be held from 8 a.m. to noon on April 2 at 4-H Memorial Camp in Allerton Park, 499 Old Timber Rd., Monticello, Ill. Participants will learn about creating spaces to attract pollinators, tree and shrub identification tips, and how to make spring container gardens. Space is limited for hands-on workshop sessions.
Register by March 30 at go.illinois.edu/gardenersday2022. The registration fee is $25. For more information, please contact Beth Miglin, Extension program coordinator, at bmiglin@illinois.edu or call 217-762-2191.
The horticulture program is a branch of University of Illinois Extension that provides research-based information and training about soil testing, tree health, lawn care, pest identification and control, vegetable gardening, and more. The horticulture program also provides Master Gardener training. Find DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Extension Master Gardeners and Horticulture on Facebook.
University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, please contact 217-762-2191. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your access needs.
Source: Beth Miglin, Extension Program Coordinator, University of Illinois Extension
Writer: Sarah Vogel, Horticulture and Natural Resources Educator, University of Illinois Extension
ABOUT EXTENSION: Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and opportunities.