Are you getting in the spirit for the fall and winter holidays?  Illinois Master Gardeners will present “Legends and Traditions of Holiday Plants” at noon on Nov. 9. The online program will begin with a discussion of several holiday traditions, and why so many people participate in them. After the presentation, there will be time for questions and sharing your own traditions using plants, spices, and natural materials.

This program will cover the famous poinsettia but will also include much more. Learn the difference between an herb and a spice and how they fit into fall and winter holidays. Learn the origins of treasured decorations and traditions from generations ago and how they continue to celebrate family heritage today. Holiday traditions also involve the outdoors. Learn how to use a live tree for the holidays, what to look for while selecting a cut tree, how to decorate the tree, and tips to provide for our wildlife. The Master Gardeners will also share how to make pomanders, a popular holiday decoration originating in the Middle Ages, and tips to preserve them for the season.

Create a new family holiday tradition or learn to cherish the ones you celebrate even more. Pack your lunch and join us on Zoom for our Lunch and Learn programs beginning at noon on the second Tuesday of each month. Join in at go.illinois.edu/LunchAndLearn. For questions about Lunch and Learn sessions, call 618-548-1446.

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.