A collaboration of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Greene County and the Thomas Jefferson Gardens of Greene County will offer periodic horticultural education sessions on a variety of timely topics related to gardening and the growing of plants and trees.
The first topic is in response to damage caused by the derecho winds to trees in this area. Jefferson resident Brad Riphagen of Trees Forever will be the speaker on Tuesday, Oct. 13, at 10 am and will cover trimming of damaged trees and selection of replacements.
Sign up is required for the in-person presentation to determine adequate room size for social distancing. Those planning to attend the program should call 515-386-2138 or email Cindy Adamson at cindya@iastate.edu by Friday, Oct. 9. Notification of location of the program will be sent to those registered. There is no fee for this session. However, some future sessions may have a fee based on materials needed for participants.
“It is the goal of these programs to provide education and inspiration to those in the area who are interested in gardening, plants and trees. A variety of resource people will be used as presenters including Iowa State University staff as available. Topics will be offered on a somewhat seasonal basis with no set monthly schedule,” said Lori Mannel, Greene County Extension director.
“Thomas Jefferson was deeply interested in agriculture and improving plant matter. This seemed a perfect fit to advance the pursuits of Thomas Jefferson to a modern audience,” said Jacque Andrew, TJG board member. “Whether or not your thumb is “green”, all are welcome to attend these sessions.”
Jefferson was quoted as saying, “Cultivators of the earth are the most valuable citizens. They are the most vigorous, the most independent, the most virtuous and they are tied to their country and wedded to its liberty and interests by the most lasting bands.”
