Events
Winter Sowing
Are you dreaming of your summer garden and itching to start some seeds now? Winter sowing is a method that allows the seed to germinate outside when the timing and conditions are just right.
We've done the research and collected the best-suited seed varieties for winter sowing. Herbs like oregano and mint. Natives like liatris, milkweed, coneflower, bee balm and coreopsis. Veggies like asparagus, broccoli, brussels sprouts, kale and leek. And many more.
All the materials, guidance and a nice selection of seeds will be available to you at this free public workshop. We'll be in Meeting Room B at the Urbandale Public Library. Stop in and sow up to five milk jugs with five different varieties. Or take the resources home and sow them at your leisure. Fun kid-friendly activity or a great opportunity for any gardener with big dreams and a yard to fill on a tight budget.
Pop-Up workshops
Make sure you follow our facebook page and website to be in the know for all our workshops we put on throughout the seasons. Whether it's a mushroom inoculation lab, soil blocking, tree grafting, seed starting, or more, you don't want to miss out!
Community Service
Our gardeners are always willing to lend a hand (or plant) to community gardens, teach workshops to students, build raised beds for seniors and people who need the help, donate seeds to community seed libraries, etc. If you're looking for a volunteer or learning opportunity of a garden variety, this is your group!
Seed Swap
Seed Swap and Giveaway! will be held at four Des Moines area libraries: Altoona, Forest Avenue, West Des Moines and Indianola. For the first time ever we will be sending seed kits to participating libraries across the state! Check your local library to see if they've signed up to participate. If they haven't reach out and see if they will in the future. A great way to get those seeds you need to begin your gardening experience.
Plant Swap
All attendees (10yo and older) can select TEN free plants or seed packets. Mix and match. Children (under the age of 10) can select up to FIVE free plants or seed packets. Additional seed, plants, baked goods and specialty items will be available for purchase.
Bring the whole family or a gardening buddy. Kids will enjoy a special garden-themed activity. Contact us in advance if you represent a giving garden - we'd like to support you with more free resources.
Celebration of Fall
Our annual fall celebration is a wonderful mish-mash of “autumn-y” things, especially for gardeners. There’s a little something for everyone at this family-friendly event.
