get the dirt on...
gardeners galore!
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Jodi Hastings | 2016 Master Gardener Class
The 2016 Master Gardener class ended in time for classmates to buy up plants and volunteer for the 4 H plant sale and take the tour later this summer! As a new potential gardener to the Juneau area, I am thrilled to have had such a great introduction to the FUN!?CHALLENGING!? FRUSTRATING!? information of gardening in Juneau, Alaska. The class was comprised of 20 individuals eager to learn specific material to those interested in all material. Folks wanted a vegetable garden, some wanted cut flower gardens, some interested in trees and bigger shrubs or “how about a high tunnel, to prolong our growing season?" Not only were all of these topics discussed, toured and part of the diverse course content, the realities, success stories and failures of gardening in Southeast Alaska were shared. The course material introduced us to soils type, climate, and influence of rainfall and plants that can grow in wet, cold conditions. SE Alaska does offer a set of challenges and what a great way to learn about them. The class helped with a number of community service projects which is part of the course content. We discussed planting dates and vegetable gardening and made soil pets with children at the “Get Gardening in 2016” information day. Sustainable Gardening is the focus of the Alaska Master Gardener class. Students learned about botany, fertilizers, especially organic material found in Alaska, plant propagation, disease and weed management. The class is a way to find individuals who have similar interests and allows introduction to open garden areas, community opportunities, green houses and landscaping. Anyone interested in joining the fun in the next Juneau Master Gardener class should contact the Cooperative Extension. You can reach them @ https://www.uaf.edu/ces/districts/juneau or call 907-523-3280. In the meantime, look for us out sharing our excitement and accepting the challenge and benefits of gardening in Southeast Alaska!! |