Growing Groceries Master Gardener Foundation

Have you ever considered growing your own healthy food using sustainable gardening techniques? The first Master Gardner program was developed by Dr. David Gibby of Washington State University in 1973. He understood the demand for education in urban horticulture and established the successful curriculum and training program in King and Pierce County which has now spread to all 50 states and eight Canadian provinces. There are over 95,000 active Master Gardeners who have provided over 5 million service hours per year to their communities. I have had the pleasure of touring a local Master Gardeners property in Des Moines. When you come across a yard like Peggy’s you can see the dedication and experience a Master Gardener employs. Growing your own food in an urban setting is nothing new. Many of us have an understanding of the famous victory gardens that Americans grew to support the war efforts. Post war community gardens became common and cities set aside uninhabitable land for gardeners. The Growing Groceries Program series is ideal for beginner to intermediate home gardeners and is crafted for the general public. They teach gardening practices based on current science for the Seattle’s maritime environment. Participants will become more successful in their home gardening outcomes and use more sustainable and environmentally healthy practices. Specific crop plants will be advised so you know exactly what to purchase to become the best farmer you can be. Nothing tastes better than fresh food from your garden. High-end grocery stores and farmers markets will not even come close once you have been educated by the Master Gardeners! Its spring so now is the time to plan your summer garden! www.mgfkc.org