Gardening classes for those who just can't wait for spring will begin Sunday, Jan. 13. Cutler Master Gardener Pat Lane begins the classes in the First Unitarian Universalist Church by sharing her knowledge and love of early-season seed preparation and planting.
Lane, one of Washington County's first Master Gardeners under the Ohio State University Extension Service program, weaves nearly eight decades of gardening knowledge with many personal stories about how gardening has affected her life. She also shares seeds - especially cherry tomato - that she has lovingly preserved.
The free gardening classes are being offered from 1-2 p.m. Sundays in the church fellowship hall at 232 Third St. (Third and Putnam streets). Classes will run five or six weeks, depending upon interest and participation. More than 150 people from throughout the Mid-Ohio Valley participated in last year's sessions.
In addition to Lane's early-season planting classe, Jim Couts will share new information learned about worm composting and organic gardening with the compost. Another class will explore the development of homemade solar domes for raised beds. The solar domes allow earlier season plantings for those hoping to jump start outdoor gardens. Another discussion involves the possible recycling of Marietta College Parson Hall window screens into community garden greenhouses.
After Lane's introductory class Jan. 13, gardeners will be invited on Saturday, Jan. 19, to help demolish an Oak Grove barn and later transform its boards into garden tables and other raised garden beds for those with health or accessibility issues.
For suggestions about additional gardening class ideas or questions: Roger G. Kalter at 373-1784 or rogerkalter1@yahoo.com
