HIAWATHA, Iowa — Gardeners from across the area gathered Saturday for the annual Winter Gardening Fair hosted by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach’s Linn County Master Gardener program.
The day-long event took place at the Kirkwood Linn Regional Center in Hiawatha and focused on helping gardeners of all skill levels learn new techniques and connect with local experts.
Organizers say interest in home gardening has surged in recent years, increasing demand for reliable information and hands-on resources. The Winter Gardening Fair is considered a signature event for the Linn County Master Gardeners and featured more than 75 gardening classes. Attendees were able to select six sessions taught by Master Gardeners, industry professionals and Iowa State University horticulture specialists.
The event also included DIY projects, horticulture displays and vendor exhibits. Presentations featured speakers from Garden Gate magazine, Seed Savers Exchange, Monarch Watch and the Xerces Society.
More than 400 people attended last year’s fair, which sold out, and proceeds from the event help fund community education and outreach efforts. Linn County Master Gardener volunteers say they grew and donated more than 15,000 pounds of fruits and vegetables to local food pantries in 2025. Organizers say the fair helps support those efforts and provides funding for free and low-cost educational programs for schools, care centers and community groups across Linn County.
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