Fall Garden Tasks is upcoming Garden Basics topic

Come learn about Fall Garden Tasks (also known as putting the garden to bed) on October 17 at 6:30 pm at the Mahaska County Extension office, 212 North I Street Oskaloosa.

Some of the fall tasks to be potentially discussed include Fall lawn care – applying herbicide and fertilizer; Harvesting and Storing apples; Planting trees and shrubs; Digging and Storing tender perennials ( gladiolus, dahlia and canna etal); Planting spring flowering bulbs; Overwintering geraniums; Pot up herbs for overwintering; Bring in houseplants; Harvesting and Storing vegetables; Mulching Strawberries; Mulching hybrid roses; Asparagus care; and Adding and incorporating composted manure into soil.

Garden Basics classes are Mahaska County Master Gardeners presenting on a variety of general gardening topics. Each one is an independent topic presented as a family friendly presentation. They are FREE, open to the public and for anyone wishing to learn about the topic. Prior registration is NOT required, but appreciated.

Mahaska County Master Gardeners are celebrating their sixteenth year. The local program organized after the county held their first training. The educational volunteer program, sponsored by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, provides current, research based, home horticulture information and education to the citizens of Iowa through programs and projects. Master Gardeners receive horticulture training, and volunteer to promote a mission of education and service. The program is open to anyone 18 or older with an interest in gardening and a willingness to use their knowledge, experience and enthusiasm to make a positive impact on their local community.

More information about this and other horticulture events can be found at the Mahaska County Extension Office; 212 North I Street; Oskaloosa Phone 641-673-5841; and www.extension.iastate.edu/mahaska/yardgarden.htm.