As winter is getting ready to head out, many are thinking about gardening, including the Master Gardener program.  Penn State Extension Master Gardeners of Elk and Cameron County are on a mission to educate the community about sustainable horticulture and environmental stewardship. The program offers the community many avenues to learn about horticulture and stewardship through workshops held at various locations throughout the area.  The upcoming departure of winter brings the need for the yearly workshops, and this year the program is taking on a new look. 

If you are an avid gardener or someone looking to gain more knowledge about factors that affect your harvest, look no further than the workshop series being offered.  The “Dig Into Gardening: Learn About Gardening and Food Sustainability” Workshop series will run from March to September, once a month, taking gardeners through the entire planning, planting, growing, and harvesting season.  Topics include starting seeds, soil health, pest management, preparing your plants for fruit, and more.  The series will be held at the Community Education Center on the Fourth Tuesday of each month from 6 pm-7:30 pm.   Each participant will receive class materials, a book, and more to enhance their educational experience.  This workshop is perfect for the beginner gardener or an experienced gardener looking to learn just a little bit more about how to be more successful.  Class size is limited, and registration is required by March 18^th. To register and learn more about this class, contact Penn State Extension. Master Gardener Coordinator.

More events on the schedule, including Plant Walks that will be held at the Elk Country Visitors Center in Benezette. These workshops will help participants identify native plants, pollinators, and more.  Plant walks are scheduled for May 16^th, August 1^st, and Oct. 3^rd.  Continue to watch for more details regarding these educational programs.   

As warmer weather approaches, the Master Gardeners will be offering additional educational experiences throughout the community.  If you would like to register for any upcoming workshop, you can contact Amanda Balon, Master Gardener Coordinator at 814-776-5331 ext 308, or arb334@psu.edu