CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Vegetable and flower transplants are expensive and the selection of varieties commercially available is limited. Farmers and gardeners can start their own seeds more affordably and gain access to many more varieties. But, seed starting can be tricky business! Getting high germination rates, keeping disease at bay, and providing adequate nutrition are just some of the considerations faced by the novice transplant grower. Proper technique can mean the difference between a thriving transplant crop and disaster.
On February 9, The Land Connection will host a workshop on farm-scale seed starting for farmers and gardeners from 6-8:30pm at the Parkland College’s greenhouse in Champaign, IL. This workshop will cover information in equipment, supplies, and techniques necessary to start all the transplants needed for a diversified farm. Any home gardeners looking to expand their skills to include all stages of plant life, will benefit greatly from this class on starting their own seedlings.
Led by Mallory Krieger of The Land Connection and Theresa Meers, horticulture educator at Parkland College, workshop participants will learn the basics of germinating seeds of different types, and caring for young seedlings. Demonstrations of various types and scales of equipment will be presented, highlighting ways farmers can start transplants on a budget. Participants will get their hands in the potting mix for hands-on learning, and will leave with a six pack of their own to grow at home.
Registration costs $35 and includes lunch and all materials. Space is limited and advanced registration is required. For more information and to register: http://thelandconnection.org/farmers/field-days-and-workshops/2017-farm-scale-seed-starting-workshop.
Times, dates, and locations:
- February 9, 6:00pm-8:30pm, Parkland College Greenhouse, Champaign, IL
About The Land Connection:
The Land Connection is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting farmland, training sustainable and organic farmers, and promoting a vibrant local food system.
— The Land Connection
For more news from Illinois, click here.