The University of Illinois Master Gardeners and 4-H Program are set to launch an innovative initiative called Learn Grow Share, aiming to combat local food insecurity. Scheduled to begin on March 11, 2025, this program provides hands-on gardening sessions for families at the Marshall-Putnam County Extension Office. Participants will learn to cultivate their produce, fostering a sense of community and empowerment. The series will later transition to a garden site, where families can work together and eventually donate their harvests to those in need. This initiative not only emphasizes sustainable living but also strengthens community bonds.
Ready to get your hands dirty and help your community? To register for the first Learn Grow Share series on March 11, 2025, visit go.illinois.edu/learngrowshare or contact Bettyann Harrison at [email protected] or (309) 384-2356.
If you will need accommodation in order to participate in Master Gardener workshops, please contact Bettyann Harrison at [email protected] or 309-364-2356. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.
Here’s a look at what’s coming up in the series:
March 11, 2025 – Tomato and Pepper Starting (6:00 p.m.)
March 25, 2025 – Cole Crops & Garden Planning (6:00 p.m.)
April 8, 2025 – Flower and Herb Starting (6:00 p.m.)
April 22, 2025 – Vermicomposting & Soil Health (6:00 p.m.)
May 6, 2025 – Water & Fertilizer: Essential Nutrients (6:00 p.m.)
May 17, 2025 – Planting Day & Establish Water Schedule (9:00 a.m.)
May 20, 2025 – Beneficial Insects and Pests (6:00 p.m.)
June 3, 2025 – Wildlife Mitigation & Safe Produce Handling (6:00 p.m.)
July 1, 2025 – Weekly Harvest Cycle Begins (6:00 p.m.)
July 29, 2025 – Cookout (6:00 p.m.)
October 11, 2025 – Garden Cleanup & Overwintering (9:00 a.m.)