The following are the classes, dates, speakers, and information for the 3rd Saturday Gardening Classes organized by the University of Tennessee - Master Gardeners of Hamilton County. Classes are always held the 3rd Saturday morning of the month from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at the Hamilton County Extension Office (6183 Adamson Circle). All classes are free and open to the public.
May 21 - Shade Gardening by Shirley McMasters
Gardening in the shade can be challenging for those of us who may only know about flowers that
require mostly sun. Shirley has been gardening for many years in the shade. Hostas, ferns, coral bells,
inpatiens and many other plants can be grown in the shade and for their texture alone, you can have a
colorful garden. Gardening in the shade is much more pleasant and safer for those with sensitive skin
and it will be cooler. Find out all the secrets of shade gardening from one who knows almost all the best ways.
June 18 - Daylilies by Peggy Dyer
June is the beginning of the two best months for the colorful daylilies. Each bloom lasts only one day, hence the name, but for that one day, they are a striking show of many colors in the landscape.
Being a perennial plant, meaning one that returns every year, daylilies are major attractors to the many
beneficial insects and hummingbirds that love the nectar these plants provide. Every garden should have a show of daylilies even if sun is at a minimum as they will shine bright for the day wherever they grow.
July 16 - Hydrangeas by Freeman Powell
What yard is complete without at least one hydrangea? Hydrangeas now come in a variety of colors and petal arrangements. From huge and puffy to flat almost saucer shaped, the hydrangea is a welcome indicator that summer has arrived. Today there are varieties for all conditions from shade to part sun. They are good for cut flower arrangements as well as an eye catching sight in the landscape. Come along and find out which one you can't live without.
August 20 - Rain Gardens by Mike Payne
Rain Gardens have really come on the scene as a must for those wet areas that have mostly been left to breed mosquitoes. As very few flowers or plants seem to like constantly wet conditions, we have tended to just let them go. Mike has the information and expert advice as to what can be done with those areas that not only will make them attractive but can become very beneficial to the environment. If you have a
wet place in your yard, a water run off area from gutters, driveways or slopes, come let Mike show you what he has done and what you can do also to turn ugly into beautiful and useful.
September 17 - Straw Bale Gardening by Robbie Summerour
Gardening in raised beds has become an easier way to garden for getting better yield of vegetables but it does take some carpentry and expense for supplies. A new and inventive gardening idea has now appeared that is more economical and has the same or better benefits than the raised beds. Straw bale gardening is the newest way of gardening especially in small areas. Whether you plant directly into the bale or use them to form a bed and add soil in the middle, gardening using straw bales is unusual but very interesting. Robbie is a certified Straw Bale Instructor who will show you her garden and tell you how you too can add this very special new way of gardening to your landscape.
October 15 – Trees - Their Value and Importance. Keep Them Healthy in Your Yard by Tom Stebbins
Trees are common everywhere. We drive by them, walk around them, sit under them, rake up the fallen leaves and pretty much give them little thought. Did you know that without trees there would be a shortage of oxygen to breathe, no wooden furniture, fewer houses and the sun would burn up the earth. Trees add value to your home, provide a home for the birds, are beautiful to look at, and provide cool shade with a light breeze. Trees, like all living things, do need some care, a healthy environment, protection from diseases and a proper place to live. Tom Stebbins is the Hamilton County Extension Agent with all the latest research-based information on the care and importance of one of nature’s best gifts, our trees. Come find out how you can be a part of the plan for a tree healthy environment.
November 19 - Live Wreath Making Class
Annually the Master Gardeners have a class in making wreaths for the holidays from live greenery.
The greenery is provided by the Master Gardeners from their own gardens and there is a large variety
of plants that can be used . Live wreaths add a special touch to the holidays with their fresh feel and
fragrance. All you need to bring is a grapevine, straw, wire or artificial wreath to class. Instructions, help and all supplies will be provided other than the wreath. You MUST register for this class as there is a minimum of 30 that can fill the classroom working on tables.