DECATUR, Ill.— Winter sowing is a popular gardening strategy that exposes seeds to cold temperatures while keeping them protected in a container. The seeds remain outside in the container and germinate once the temperatures rise. The result is a heartier spring transplant and a budget-friendly garden.

Macon County Master Gardeners are hosting Winter Seed Sowing from 2 to 3 p.m. on Jan. 27 at the Decatur Public Library. Participants will learn about winter sowing and plant seeds in a plastic container to take home for the garden season.

This is a free event, but participants should register by Jan. 25 at go.illinois.edu/SeedSowing. For questions, please contact Whitney at wallison@illinois.edu or call 217-877-6042.

University of Illinois provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, please contact 217-877-6042. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your access needs.

SOURCE: Whitney Allison, Master Gardener Program Coordinator, University of Illinois Extension

WRITER: Maria Lightner, Marketing and Communications, 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.