NORTH BRUNSWICK, N.J. — If you would like to grow fresh produce at home, but aren’t sure if you have enough room for planting, join the Master Gardeners of Middlesex County for an upcoming workshop titled Successful Gardens in Small Spaces.
This free workshop is scheduled for Aug. 26 from 10 a.m. to noon at the EARTH Center located in Davidson’s Mill Pond Park at 42 Riva Ave, South Brunswick.
The workshop will explore square-foot gardening, a type of gardening that concentrates on a small, clearly defined area and incorporates the use of compost. Advocates say this method works great for beginning gardeners or those with disabilities, and can help in areas with poor soil. Container gardening also will be discussed. This technique can often give urban gardeners a way to safely and productively grow their favorite crops.
“You don’t need lots of land to grow your own fruits and vegetables,” said Freeholder Kenneth Armwood, Chair of the County’s Business Development and Education Committee. “Even if you’re not an experienced gardener, this workshop will help you learn how you can have a beautiful garden regardless of the size of your property.”
“Due to many requests, this is the second time this year that the program will be presented,” said Freeholder Director Ronald G. Rios. “I hope that those who were not able to attend the first session will be able to make it to this one. Growing your own produce allows gardeners and their families to keep active and eat healthy.”
To register, call 732-398-5262 by Aug. 23 or e-mail Carol.richiusa@co.middlesex.nj.us.
The EARTH Center offers a host of environmental services to the county. Residents can purchase soil test kits, pesticide application test manuals or submit pest and disease samples for evaluation.
The Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Middlesex County is part of a nationwide network that brings the research of the State land-grant universities to residents. Offices throughout New Jersey are cooperatively funded by the County Board of Chosen Freeholders, Rutgers University-New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
To find out more about the EARTH Center and its events, call 732-398-5262 or visit www.middlesexcountynj.gov and search ‘extension.’
— Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Middlesex County