“Getting Started in Organic Gardening” At Canton Public Library

            Just in time for getting seeds and plants into the soil, Canton Public Library is offering “Getting Started in Organic Gardening” on Saturday, March 31, with Bettylou Sandy.  The program begins at 10:30 and includes a Powerpoint presentation, a demonstration, and time for questions. 

           “Getting Started in Organic Gardening” is intended for both beginning gardeners and more experienced gardeners who are transitioning into organic gardening.  Sandy will discuss container and small space gardening for those who have limited space or who want to start small.  Attendees will leave with the knowledge and confidence to start “growing their own.” 

          “No matter how little space you have and no matter what your conditions, you can grow your own food,” according to Sandy.  In her presentation she will cover growing food in containers, in framed, raised beds; and in the ground.  She will discuss the progression of crops that can be grown in our region, from cold-weather crops that can be planted in the spring—peas, lettuce, carrots, radishes—to warm weather crops for planting in May and June.  Handouts will be provided.

          Sandy is an enthusiastic proponent of container gardening.  “I encourage people to use containers they have, or can obtain inexpensively,” she said.   “There are so many options available.  My first tomatoes were grown in a five gallon bucket with holes punched in the bottom.”

           Bettylou Sandy has been the owner of “Bettylou’s Gardening” in Manchester, CT, since 1987.  She has taught gardening classes at Manchester Community College since 2002 and is the cofounder and coordinator of the community garden on campus, which serves as an outdoor classroom and a community resource.  She serves as vice-president of CT NOFA (Connecticut chapter of the Northeast Organic Farming Association) and is accredited by the NOFA Organic Land Care Program.

           “Getting Started in Organic Gardening” is part of the library’s “Transition Towns” series, which emphasizes sustainability. Transition towns have recognized that we are on an unsustainable trajectory in our energy use, our economy, and our treatment of the planet.  The movement promotes vibrant, grassroots community initiatives that increase local self-reliance and resilience.”  The program and the “Transition Towns” series is funded by a grant from the Newman’s Own Foundation

           “Getting Started in Organic Gardening” is free; REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.