Even though the days were sunny and springlike, community members still came out to help support the Escanaba Kiwanis at their annual home and garden show/pancake feed on April 12-14, 2024. The partnership with the Escanaba Kiwanis allows for Michigan State University Extension’s consumer horticulture and nutrition staff, along with Extension Master Gardeners, to interact with the public while sharing educational resources on Smart Gardening and healthy choices. From family-friendly gardening activities, referring them to free Smart Gardening tip sheets, to listening to presentations and demonstrations, participants chose what they would like to participate in.

What happened at Michigan State University (MSU) Extension’s Smart Gardening booth?

Throughout this three-day event, over 2,600 people were introduced to MSU Extension Smart Gardening and nutrition education and resources. Key messages included “don’t guess, soil test,” “right plant, right place,” as well as protecting shorelines and pollinators. At least 40 people participated in the free presentations focused on small space gardening, creating your own soil blocks, caring for honey bees and much more.

Over 75 children and families enjoyed a seed identification game, planted wheatgrass or created their own flower. Dianna Lawson, an Extension Master Gardener, generated the creating your own flower project. Children constructed their own plant from paper while identifying its different parts. The flower and pollen and their importance to bees (pollinators) was an integral component to this activity.

Extension Master Gardener Volunteers make it happen

Extension Master Gardeners were again key to the success of this event. They volunteered tirelessly to assist with any task required. From booth setup, volunteering during the event, gathering door prizes to taking down displays, they were an integral part. Twelve different Extension Master Gardeners volunteered over 68 hours, which amounted to over $2,100 in economic contribution during this weekend community event.

For more information on the first step in becoming an Extension Master Gardener, visit the Foundations of Gardening website.

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