For the past few years, the Meeker County Master Gardeners have been working with local youth on the Jr. Master Gardener Program.

This program is an excellent opportunity for youth to learn more about nature and how food is grown. These skills and lessons will help them relate to their future science classes and provide life lessons well into the future.

This program is offered for children ages 6-10 (must have completed first grade). Master Gardeners Karen Bode, Dave Brett, Janine Shepersky and other adults, will teach this class. Join Karen and crew in planning, planting, caring for and harvesting a garden plot.

Youth and adults will choose annual flowers and vegetables to create a gardening world for you to share with family and friends. Karen will lead you to discover the benefits of gardening and the step-by-step process for success.

Youth will receive produce from their work, as well as a free T-shirt. Jr. Master Gardeners will work in a 20x50 garden plot at the Litchfield Community Gardens by the Civic Arena near Litchfield High School on the north side of town.

Youth also are going to learn how to plant in old adult-sized boots for their own container garden.

The program will be offered on Thursdays: May 22, 29; June 5, 12, 19, 26; July 24; Aug. 28; and Sept. 25 at the garden plot. The program will take place from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. on school days from and from 1 to 2 p.m. on non-school days. They also will meet from 3:15 to 5 p.m. May 27 at the 4-H Foodstand at the Meeker County Fairgrounds.

Cost is $20 and is limited to the first 12 registrants with a deadline of May 15. Contact the Meeker County Extension Office for additional information and registration forms.

Source: Karen Bode, master gardener