Name: Crossing Garden Education Series
Start: 2026-03-10T10:00:00-05:00
End: 2026-03-10T11:00:00-05:00
Location: Crossing Healthcare Garden 320 E Central Ave Decatur IL

Meet University of Illinois Extension at Crossing Healthcare garden each month to learn practical tips, tried-and-true techniques, and maybe a few insider secrets. There is no charge to attend, but advance registration is requested. Registration for each program closes the day before.
March 10: To Seed or Not to Seed. What is the Question?
Explore whether to start plants from seed or purchase starts, with an opportunity to start seeds in the greenhouse.
April 14: Get Out of the House Now
Learn when to plant seedlings outdoors, with hands-on planting in the garden and a chance to take a plant home.
May 12: What's the difference? Heirloom, native, organic, non-GMO, Hybrid, Nontreated
Understand the variety of seeds available for your gardens.
June 9: What the Hey!
Discover garden surprises like oddly shaped vegetables and unusual varieties, with a fun taste-testing opportunity.
July 14: Produce Storage and Food Safety
Add days to the shelf-life of fresh fruits and veggies. Know how to safely store and prepare foods to prevent foodborne illness.
August 11: Fresh From the Garden
Explore what makes a nutritious meal and gain inspiration for pairing foods in ways that are healthy in this back to the basics class.
September 8: Some Things Just Need Covered Up
Learn how to prepare your garden for winter and properly store your tools.
October 13: How did your Garden Grow?
Let's reflect on successes and challenges. What practices did you learn from the series that you are using at home?
College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences
University of Illinois* U.S. Department of Agriculture* Local Extension Councils Cooperating
Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, please call 217-877-6042. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your access needs.