Growing Green: Let's Get Growing event is March 23

It’s that time of year again. Spring is just around the corner, seeds are ordered, and local master gardener groups are gearing up for their annual education days.

The Douglas County Master Gardener group is no exception. On Saturday, March 23 from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., Douglas County Master Gardeners present Let’s Get Growing at Alexandria Technical College Office and Information Technology Center. This event includes a selection of 24 different workshop topics.

This year’s keynote speaker is the renegade gardener, Don Engebretson, author of Stone Landscaping, Perennials for Minnesota and Wisconsin, Annuals for Minnesota and Wisconsin and Tree and Shrub Gardening of Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Don wants to help gardeners avoid the “staggering failures” he has experienced in his 25-plus years of gardening.

In order for a blunder to make his top 10 list, it must be a common blunder, as common as crabgrass, the same mistake he sees homeowners making all around the country. It must be a major blunder; it must impart true gruesome effect on one’s yard and landscape, or on one’s ability to grow a healthy plant. It must be a blunder that he has made.

Don’s experience and knowledge will help set you on the path to success in your home garden.

For more information about Don and his work, visit his website

at www.renegadegardener.com.

Let’s Get Growing has something for everyone, from the novice to the experienced gardener. Participants will be able to attend four different workshop sessions, which include such topics as heirlooms, all American vegetable winners, season-long color and summer bulbs.

If you’re interested in micro greens, want to know more about growing herbs, or learn about new perennials for 2013, there’s a session for you. Between sessions, visit our vendors with gardening items for sale, and booths with up-to-date gardening information.

Early bird registration is $30 if received prior to March 13. Registrations received after March 13 or sold at the door will be $35. Registration includes refreshments, lunch and workshop sessions.

To register or to receive more information, contact the Douglas County Extension Office at (320) 762-3890. You may also register at the Douglas County Extension Office located in the Douglas County Service Center building at 720 Fillmore Street.

View the full brochure online at www.extension.umn.edu/county/douglas.

Until next time, happy gardening!

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