It may not feel like it yet, but spring really is on the way. If you’re already dreaming about digging in the dirt, there’s an event coming up that will help you get ready.
Garden Education Day Means Spring Is Coming!
GARDEN EDUCATION DAY IS COMING
Garden Education Day is returning to Central Minnesota on Saturday, March 14, 2026, and it’s the perfect way to kick-start your growing season before the snow even melts.
GARDENING EDUCATION FOR ALL SKILL LEVELS
The event runs from 8 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. at the Gorecki Conference Center at the College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph. It’s hosted by the University of Minnesota Master Gardener Volunteers of Stearns County and has become a favorite annual tradition for gardeners of all skill levels.
Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or someone who wants to keep a houseplant alive a little longer this year, there’s something for everyone.
GENERAL SESSIONS SPOTLIGHT EXCITING NEW VARIETIES
The day begins with a general session called “New Plants Worth Your Attention,” which will spotlight exciting new plant varieties that grow well in Central Minnesota.
If you love discovering new flowers, shrubs, or trees, this is a great way to get ideas for your yard before the planting season begins.
After that, attendees can choose from a wide variety of breakout sessions throughout the day.
BREAKOUT SESSIONS THROUGHOUT THE DAY
What do you want to learn this year? You’ve got lots of choices. Some of them include:
How to start seeds indoorsEasy, low-maintenance houseplantsSoil fertility for vegetable gardensHerbs for cooking and home useNative plants for pollinatorsManaging invasive beetlesLawn alternatives like bee lawns and fine fescuesTree pests and diseasesHosta care and designMAKE AND TAKE SESSIONS AVAILABLE
There are also a few hands-on “make and take” sessions, where participants can create items like a beaded dragonfly garden decoration or learn the art of soil blocking for starting seeds.
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GET EXPERT ADVICE FROM MASTER GARDENERS
One especially helpful feature returning this year is the expert panel, where attendees can ask gardening questions and get advice from experienced Master Gardeners. It’s a great opportunity to get answers to those tricky yard or plant problems before the growing season begins.
FREE WELL WATER NITRATE TESTING CLINIC
There will also be a free well water nitrate testing clinic available throughout the day. If you plan to take advantage of that, bring a one-cup water sample that’s less than 24 hours old and kept cool.
DON’T FORGET TO REGISTER NOW
The event is open to all gardening enthusiasts. Early registration is $40 through March 2nd, and the cost increases to $45 after that. Registration closes March 9, and space may be limited in some sessions. CLICK HERE NOW TO GET REGISTERED.
WARMER DAYS ARE AHEAD
Even though winter still has a grip on Central Minnesota, this event is a great reminder that warmer days and gardening season are on the horizon.
Even though we are seeing some warm weather on the horizon, Master Gardener Bill Cook says don’t be tempted to start working in your garden too early.
If you’re ready to start planning your garden, learning something new, or just spending a day surrounded by fellow plant lovers, Garden Education Day might be exactly what you need to shake off those winter blues.
Beautiful Photos From Clemens Gardens
This weekend was a great one to get out and do something fun. I wanted to destress, so I drove over to Clemens Gardens for a nice stroll through the gardens. What a beautiful place it is. There are flowers everywhere, as well as fountains and statues. These photos only capture part of what’s available to see, but in case you haven’t had a chance to visit, now is a great time to view them, as everything is in full bloom. Take a look at some beautiful photos and then make a plan to take your own trip. All of your senses will thank you.
Gallery Credit: Photos by Kelly Cordes
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