Unconventional Fruit and Nut Crops Speaker

Iowa State University Extension

Mahaska County Master Gardeners are hosting Tom Wahl on March 6. Tom Wahl and Kathy Dice operate Red Fern Farms, a family owned nursery and farm. It is the site of ongoing research on a variety of tree crops and forest farming systems. They raise and sell a variety of container grown tree seedlings well suited for the Midwest. Tom will talk about the growing of fruit and nut producing trees, shrubs, and vines for commercial production, for use in backyard landscaping, or in public parks and open spaces. Topics will include chestnut, heartnut, persimmon, pawpaw, berry bushes, and a few others on Tuesday, March 6 at 7 pm at the Mahaska County Extension office; 212 North I Street, Oskaloosa.

The presentation is open to the public; and there is no fee to attend. Prior registration is NOT required. Anyone who is interested in the topic is encouraged to attend.

Mahaska County Master Gardeners are celebrating their fourteenth 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.