Learn the basics of drip irrigation
Published 12:01 am Thursday, March 3, 2011
Is this the year you’re finally going to set up a home garden irrigation system?
If so, you can get a jump start on your project — and perhaps save money — by getting an education from a local pro.
Jeff Thompson, a Snohomish County master gardener and a low-volume irrigation instructor at Edmonds Community College, will be giving 2½-hour courses on the subject in March and April.
Drip irrigation systems can help gardeners save water, prevent plant diseases, and decrease weeds and runoff into local streams, while also saving time and labor.
Participants can choose from a variety of class times, including 1 to 3:30 p.m. or 6 to 8:30 p.m. March 15; 9 to 11:30 a.m. or 1 to 3:30 p.m. March 30; 2 to 4:30 p.m. or 6 to 8:30 p.m. April 15.
Classes will be held at the WSU Snohomish County extension offices, 600 128th St. SE, Everett.
Cost is $20 per person or $25 for two people sharing materials.
Thompson will cover design techniques and how purchase the right equipment in this hands-on course, designed to make a novice comfortable with the aspects of installing an irrigation system.
Thompson will provide each participant with a 50-page handout, which will serve as a text and reference guide to local and mail-order suppliers.
To register, go to snohomish.wsu.edu/calendar.htm. Download and print a registration form and mail it in with a check to Washington State University Extension, 600 128th St. SE, Everett, WA 98208, or contact Karie Christensen at 425-357-6039 or klchristen@cahnrs.wsu.edu.
Grow groceries: Do you dream of growing your own food but don’t know how to get started?
Well, you’re in luck.
Washington State University’s Snohomish County Extension Office, Monroe Public Schools and the Snohomish County Master Gardener Foundation will host their third annual Growing Groceries event from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at Monroe High School, 17001 Tester Road, Monroe.
Experts, including Steve Smith of Sunnyside Nursery of Marysville, will talk about the best techniques for edible landscaping, school and community gardening, healthy soils, composting, weeds and pest management.
Admission is $10 per person or $20 per family for up to five people. Register at the event or print out a registration form at snohomish.wsu.edu/calendar.htm.
For more information, e-mail mg.help@wsu.edu or call 425-357-6010.
Sarah Jackson: 425-339-3037, sjackson@heraldnet.com.
