The Master Gardeners of Cumberland County are offering 25 gardening and nature classes this year at UT Gardens-Crossville, commonly known as the Plateau Discovery Gardens.
“These classes are given by specialists and Master Gardeners, and the best thing about them is that most are free,” said Kristi DuBois with the Master Gardeners. “Get a jump on the growing and froggy season with these March classes.”
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4. All About Pruning!, 1-3 p.m. Gregg Upchurch, Cumberland County UT Extension agent, will teach participants to prune with confidence, as well as when to prune, when to stop, and how to avoid common mistakes with shrubs, trees, grasses, and hydrangeas.
THURSDAY, MARCH 12. Homegrown Strawberries!, 10 a.m.-noon. Seth Whitehouse, Anderson County UT Extension agent, will tell how to grow sweeter strawberries at home, share the best varieties for this area and provide tips on soil, light, water, pests, and what to do with those baby plants.
SATURDAY, MARCH 14. Vegetable Gardening 101, 9-11 a.m. Master Gardeners Fred Mullen and Sid Morgan will share how to grow a dream vegetable garden. They’ll provide Master Gardener tips on planting, growing and harvesting, plus varieties that perform best on the Cumberland Plateau.
SATURDAY, MARCH 28. Froggy Went A-Courtin’ child-friendly program, 10-11:30 a.m. Stephen Lyn Bales, naturalist, educator and author will help participants hop into spring with the frogs of East Tennessee. In the spring, male frogs croon to attract female frogs. He’ll share how to recognize frog calls, help participants discover why clean water matters, and include lots of laughs during this lively program. All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Unless otherwise stated, classes will be in the indoor classroom at the UT Plateau Research and Education Center at 320 Experiment Station Road. Follow the sign to the rear of the second brick building.
Class registration is important. Some classes have a size limit. If fewer than five people register, the class may be canceled.
Preferred registration is by visiting ccmga.org and go to programs/classes. Participants may also register by emailing utgardenscrossville@utk.edu, or call 931-484-0034.
“As a courtesy to the class presenter, always notify us if you cannot attend,” DuBois said. “We are looking forward to you joining us!”
Master Gardeners is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides free educational programs in Cumberland County and summer internships for college students in the field of agriculture/horticulture.
Visit ccmga.org for the full year’s list of classes and events.