PRESS RELEASE: Gardening Classes Offered in September

PERRY, GA – Gardening classes will be offered in September on Tuesdays by the University of Georgia Houston County Extension Office. Four classes will be held in Perry, Ga. at 5:30 p.m. Anyone interested is invited to participate for a nominal fee of $15 per event. A brief description of each class held September 1, 8, 15, and 22 follows.

September 1, Plan Now for Fall Veggies

Be the envy of your neighborhood by growing fresh, home-grown veggies. Plant cool-season seeds this fall to grow through winter, transplant in the spring, and harvest soon thereafter. Learn how to nurture the seeds on your windowsill, under grow lights, or in a greenhouse. Find out the secrets to success and where to obtain free seeds. Location: Hafley Park

September 8, Hand Tool Care

There is no need to keep buying new gardening tools every year. Ensure your hand and garden tools last and perform with three simple steps: clean, protect, and store. Learn tips of the trade and best practices to extend their life and get the most out of your tools. Location: Houston County Extension Office Pavilion.

September 15, Let’s Plant Some Trees!

Did you know that trees not only add beauty to your yard, but their shade can lower your air conditioning needs by as much as 30 percent? Mature trees also significantly increase the value of your property by three to 15 percent. Trees clean our air and provide food and shelter for wildlife, plus many more benefits. Join this class to find out the many reasons you need more trees in your yard. Learn how to plant your tree and basic care needed to help it thrive. Find out the best type of mulch to apply and why the donut method is so much better than the pyramid. Native trees that grow best in middle Georgia will be suggested, along with the reasons why. Location: Houston County Extension Office Pavilion.

September 22, Spice It Up!

Add some flavor to your life (and recipes) with the herbs you grow yourself. Find out how to get the most out of your herbs with tips on how to dry, dehydrate, and preserve them. Discover basic uses and share recipes with one another that use your favorite herbs. Location: Hafley Park.

Houston County ANR Program Assistant, Christine Kelly, commented, “We love sharing research-based information and techniques with our community! These events are a fun, affordable way for anyone who is interested to learn something new to use at their own home.”

The Houston County Extension Office is located at 2030 Kings Chapel Road in Perry. Hafley Park is located at 1527 Sunshine Avenue in Perry. To register, call the extension office at 478-987-2028. Kelly may be reached at 478-987-2028 or Christine.kelly@uga.edu. To learn more about the UGA Extension office, visit www.extension.uga.edu. A flyer for the fall classes follows.