Master gardeners – the same people who create the colorful flower beds at Washington Township facilities – are sharing their expertise with the public in a series of monthly workshops.

The workshops, which are free to township residents, are useful for people who want to improve the appearance of their yard, but who need some help getting started, said Sandy Spees, township horticulture consultant. Classes cover a variety of gardening topics such as pruning, planting and lawn care.

“These are hands-on workshops. Participants can take away something, whether it’s a seed tray or a brochure,” she said. Spees, a former public school teacher and past coordinator of the local Master Gardener program, teaches many of the classes herself.

In the workshops participants may find themselves planting seeds or heading over to Countryside Park, next to the Recreation Center, to practice the art of pruning. Those who prefer to watch and listen, but not participate, are equally welcome, she said.

The remaining workshops have been cancelled. For more information please contact Mike Wanamaker

Planting Techniques for Small Trees and Perennials
Thursday, August 24
7:00 to 9:30 p.m.
Fire Station 45, 8320 McEwen Road.

The best way to have a healthy, beautiful garden is to install plants properly. During the first years after planting problems occur because of improper planting and of care during the first months of living in our gardens. We’ll show you methods for planting small trees and shrubs that will ensure your success.

Because some perennials require different planting depths and soils you will learn the best method for many common garden plants. Join us for a workshop that will help you have a beautiful garden.

Bulbs and Fall Planting
Thursday, September 28
7:00 to 9:30 p.m.
Government Center, 8200 McEwen Road

Bulbs, bulbs, bulbs. Tulips aren’t the only bulbs that can be planted for a beautiful spring show. Allium, aconite, squill and crocus are just a few. Come to the workshop to learn about the many varieties of spring blooming bulbs and how to plant them properly. We’ll also discuss “forcing” bulbs for an indoor, winter delight. October is the time for planting, so join us at this September workshop to find out how to enliven your spring garden.



TBA - Hypertufa Troughs

For those regular garden workshop attendees a special session will be held on August 22 nd or September 12 th at 4PM. Master Gardener, Susan Wells, will help participants make hypertufa troughs. If one has attended the workshops and wishes to learn how to make a hypertufa trough you must register for one of the two dates: email sspees@washingtontwp.org or call 439-5049. Workshop site and needed materials will be given participants when registration is complete.

Fall Decorating Ideas from the Garden
Thursday, October 19
4 to 5:30 p.m.
Public Works Garage, 8190 McEwen Rd.
(Back part of the building)

Dried ornamental grasses, hydrangea blooms and pods from the garden can be made into centerpieces for the table. This workshop will help residents take dried materials from their own gardens and fashion them into arrangements that bring a fall flavor to their home décor. Usable garden materials include – but are not limited to – seed pods from perennials, dried ornamental grass leaves and grass plumes. Start collecting now for your best arrangement!

Holiday Decorating Ideas from the Garden
(Cancelled)
Thursday, November 16
4 to 5:30 p.m.
Public Works garage, 8190 McEwen Rd.
(Back part of the building)

Branches from a homeowner’s spruce or willow tree can be the beginning of a holiday decoration. This workshop will teach participants how to use natural materials to design a wreath or centerpiece for the holidays.