University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners are hosting summer workshops across several library locations. Topics include vegetable gardening in raised beds, native plant care, and youth gardening through the Learn-Grow-Share 4-H Spin Club. Registration and further details are available through the University of Illinois Extension website.
Vegetable Gardening in Raised Beds and Containers Workshops: Learn how to use above-ground growing systems for safe and fruitful production of your favorite backyard vegetables. Methods to increase production by maximizing your space, recommended soil and fertilizer practices, and construction material options will be reviewed.
● May 08, 2025, at Reddick Public Library, 1010 Canal St., Ottawa, IL 61350, from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. Register at: go.illinois.edu/ottawaveg
● June 06, 2025, at Putnam County Public Library District, 214 S Mccoy St., Granville, Illinois 61326 from 1:00-2:00 p.m. Register at: go.illinois.edu/granveg
Easy Care Native Plants Workshops: Many home gardeners would like to add native plants to their garden, but are unsure how to start. This program takes a look at the native plants that are low-maintenance and grow in a wide range of conditions
● May 28, 2025, at Henry Public Library, 702 Front St., Henry, IL 61357 from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. Register at: go.illinois.edu/nativehenryplants
● June 05, 2025, at Princeton Public Library, 698 E Peru St., Princeton, IL 61356 from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Register at: go.illinois.edu/nativeprincetonplants
Learn-Grow-Share 4-H Spin Club: Gardening for Youth Open to all ages. Dig into gardening with the Learn-Grow-Share 4-H Spin Club! Participants will grow vegetables, herbs, and flowers, with produce donated to local blessing boxes—over 700 pounds were donated in 2024. Youth can use their harvests for 4-H exhibits and learn to cook with fresh ingredients. Membership is free thanks to community donations.
Sign up at go.illinois.edu/learngrowshare. Meetings are held 1-2 times monthly at the Marshall-Putnam Extension Office, 509 Front St, Henry, IL 61537. For more information, accommodations, please contact Anne Scheel at [email protected] or 309-364-2356.
This month’s sessions:
● May 06, 2025, from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. – Water & Fertilizer: Essential Nutrients
● May 17, 2025 starting at 9:00 a.m. – Planting Day & Establish Water Schedule
● May 20, 2025, from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. – Beneficial Insects and Pests
If you will need accommodation in order to participate in Master Gardener workshops, contact Bettyann Harrison at [email protected] or 309-364-2356. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.
To learn more about the Master Gardener program, call University of Illinois Extension at 309-364-2356 or email Bettyann Harrison at [email protected].