Workshop April 5 in Warrenton on how to design and plant a small vegetable garden

Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) and Fauquier County Master Gardeners are offering a presentation on “Designing and Planting a Small Vegetable Garden.” on Tuesday, April 5 at 6 pm at the VCE Office at 24 Pelham St. in Warrenton.

The presentation will be taught by Master Gardener Mary Lou Holczer, who has been gardening for 50 years.  Mary Lou is a seasoned gardener, who enjoys all aspects of gardening and growing plants – both indoors and outside. 
Mary Lou’s presentation will cover:

• Garden Site Selection –While Mary Lou says that a level, flat area is ideal for vegetable gardens, she will also share ways home gardeners can create thriving gardens in less than ideal situations, like sloping areas.

• Plant Spacing – The guiding principle in planting your garden, according to Mary Lou, is giving your veggies room to grow.  You need to know how big they will become as mature plants so you don’t overcrowd them or inhibit their development.

• Seeds vs. Plants – Is it better to plant tomatoes from seed or transplant young tomatoes plants from garden centers or nurseries?  Mary Lou will share which plants do better in the garden when planted as a young plant or sown directly from seed.  Come find out the best way to plant tomatoes.

• Best Varieties for Beginners – Mary Lou says the “tried and true” varieties are a great place to start.  She will share some of her favorites – standard, hybrid and heirlooms.

• Prevention Methods for Common Problems – Common sense in the garden can help gardeners avoid many common insect or plant disease problems.  The benefits of companion planting, and smart watering practices will also be discussed.

The presentation is part of the Fauquier Master Gardeners’ Twilight Tuesdays program, a series of horticultural classes held from spring to fall each year for the community.  The classes are taught by horticultural experts and seasoned master gardeners and cover a broad range of topics – from gardening techniques and tips, to advances in environmental and conservation issues. 

The series provides local gardeners with innovative gardening techniques and best practices that they can put to use in their own home gardens.

“Designing and Planting a Small Vegetable Garden” program is free and open to the public.  It will last 60 -90 minutes.  Seating is limited, so it is recommended to register early.  To RSVP or for additional information, contact the Fauquier County Master Gardener Help Desk at 540-341-7950, Ext. 1 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).