Sunday, Jan. 29, 2012

Arboretum Workshops

The Arboretum at Johnston Community College has scheduled the following workshops. To reserve a space, call Lin Frye at 209-2052 or Minda Daughtry at 209-2184.

Gardening for the New to North Carolina - 6:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, in the arboretum mobile unit. This workshop is designed especially for those new to North Carolina or new to gardening. It will cover plant information needed for a garden. The fee is $15.

Vegetable Gardening in Square Foot and Container Gardens - 6:30-8:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 13, in the arboretum mobile unit. The fee is $15. This hands-on class covers the various ways to grow vegetables in small spaces. Also, the class covers the best varieties to grow locally and when to plant, thin and harvest. Participants will go home with several vegetables varieties to begin their own food gardens.

Birds and Feeders for Children 5-12 Years - 4:30-6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 29, in the arboretum brick building. The fee is $15. This hands-on workshop for children focuses on attracting birds to the backyard. Participants will create handmade bird feeders and a birdhouse to take home. Also, they will learn about some of the plants that can attract these feathered friends.

Sustainable Gardening and the Bees - 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 6, in the arboretum mobile unit. The fee is $15. Learn management strategies and practices that will enhance plants while sustaining the environment. This class will focus on honeybees and ways to attract and keep them healthy. Participants will also have an opportunity to sample local honey.

Pruning Crape Myrtles and Azaleas - 10 a.m.-noon Wednesday, March 7, in the arboretum mobile Unit. The fee is $10. Learn how to prune crape myrtles and azaleas so they look their best while remaining healthy.

Fruit and Berry Pruning and Maintenance Workshop - 2-5 p.m. Tuesday, March 13, in the arboretum mobile unit. The fee is $15. This class will show the proper way to prune various fruit trees and berries. It will also include information on proper maintenance of these plants.

Sustainable Food Systems with Tony Kleese - 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, March 20, in the Arboretum Mobile Unit. The fee is $15. Kleese will show participants how to create a sustainable food system for families and communities.

Center for Environmental Farming Systems Tour - 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 27. Meet at the arboretum mobile unit for the trip to Goldsboro. The fee is $20. Lunch is on your own. This tour focuses on sustainable agricultural activities, local farms, and produce and sustainability.