The arrival of October means getting outdoors to explore all things autumn, and the North Alabama Agriplex is brimming this month with activities that tap the fall season’s bounty of learning opportunities.
The Agriplex’s classes for kids in October cover every fall thing from creepy-crawly critters to pumpkin-themed arts and crafts; while adult programs will explore out-of-the-box agricultural ideas, how-to skills for getting bulbs in the ground, and even creating your own homemade broom.
Here’s a look at all the events and activities happening at the Agriplex in October:
Adult programs
Oct. 10 at 6 p.m. — Military Veteran & Beginning Farmer: Out of the Box Opportunities
An Alabama Extension specialist will introduce niche production systems that are viable in Alabama, from Christmas trees to hydroponics. This session is free to attend; pre-registration is required and secures each participant a light dinner.
Oct. 16 at 12 p.m. — Lunch & Learn: Tulips and Bulbs
Plant bulbs now for a beautiful show of flowers in the spring, plus garlic harvest in the summertime. This class will cover planting, selection and perennial care; Course cost is $10 per participant.
Oct 22 at 6 p.m. — Living Landscapes: Broommaking
Build your skills by making a DIY hearth broom out of broomcorn. Course cost is $30, and includes broommaking materials.
Oct. 24 at 6 p.m. — Heritage Skills: Needle Felting
Allison Kress will teach the basics of needle felting as participants stitch their own cute hand-made animals. Each participant will choose one animal to make and take. The $25 course cost includes a needle felting kit.
Kids’ Programs
Oct. 3 at 12 p.m. — Heritage Homeschool (Secondary): Mini Pumpkin Bouquet
Kristin Wheatley-Willimack from Fields of Flowers will show students how to create their own fresh-cut, locally grown flower bouquets to display inside a mini pumpkin. Course cost is $20 per student, for students grades 6-12.
Oct. 5 at 9 a.m. — Farm Kids Club: The Mushroom Fan Club
Explore the world of mushrooms together, then take home a kit to grow your own. The $20 course cost (for students ages 5 and up) includes a mushroom grow kit.
Oct 11 at 10 a.m. — Little Farmers: Crazy About Corn
Come learn about corn all in this $7 class for children ages 3-5 accompanied by an adult.
Oct 24 at 9 a.m. — Heritage Homeschool (Elementary): Creepy Crawlies
Come see and learn about an extensive collection of snakes, spiders and other special friends. Course cost is $10 per student for kids grades K-6 and their parents.
To learn more about the North Alabama Agriplex and register for any of the above events, visit the Agriplex’s website at agriplex.org.