Wanna Start a Community Garden?

West Virginia State University (WVSU) Extension Service will host a series of workshops on community gardening May 16, 17 and 19 at the Switzer Community Center in Charleston. The free workshops target community leaders, individuals and organizations hoping to start or expand community garden projects.

Workshops will cover the basics of garden layout and location, plant variety selection, pest management and additional topics in community garden creation and management. All experience levels are welcome.

“These workshops will be a great learning opportunity for community members interested in either launching, expanding or participating in community gardens and other smaller urban gardening initiatives,” said WVSU Extension Agent Brad Cochran.

The full workshop schedule is as follows.

  • Tuesday, May 16, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Site Selection and Preparation; Design and Spacing
  • Wednesday, May 17, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Plant Selection and Growing Techniques; Container and Raised Bed Production
  • Friday, May 19, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. – Insect and Disease Management

Registration is required by contacting Cochran at (304) 204-4021 or bcochran2@wvstateu.edu.

Funding for the workshop series is provided by the USDA’s Office of Advocacy and Outreach Socially Disadvantaged Farmer and Rancher (2501) Program, award number 59-2501-16-043.

The Switzer Community Center is located at Orchard Manor, 900 Griffin Drive in Charleston.

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