Master gardeners' videos meant to sprout Interest

Master gardeners have found a new way to grow public interest in plants and natural landscaping — showing films of their pet horticultural projects.

“Minnesota River Valley Master Gardens always plan some kind of spring event; however, this is the first year they are offering video tours,” said, Kelly Hulke of the University of Minnesota Extension’s Blue Earth County office.

Extension Educator Shane Bugeja will oversee the free event 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday at Blue Earth County Library.

After showing the videos — most created by Bethany Lutheran College students — the master gardeners will elaborate for their audience.

“Barb Maher will talk about wildflowers, she’s really good at that,” Hulke said, describing the first speaker.

Maher is a Mankato resident and one of the caretakers for a native plant demonstration plot near Glenwood Avenue.

In early April, gardeners easily turn their thoughts away from enduring the harsh and gray winter to planting seeds and being outdoors.

Maher spent Friday afternoon raking leaves from her yard and looking for emerging tulips and daffodils.

“They are popping up all over — this is such a wonderful time of year for gardeners,” she said.

A veteran of several master gardener presenters, Maher said the addition of videos will freshen up the biennial program.

She said the videos are newly taped and are not the perennial programs the group has been airing on public access television for several years.

“The one about composting, that’s been showing on KTV is about 15 years old,” Maher said. “It’s kinda funny. The information was correct, but my hair was still brown.”

Attendees at Saturday’s event may expect good answers to their questions about growing flowers, vegetables and various grasses. Master gardeners also will be ready to provide advice about gardening in small spaces and selecting plants for hanging baskets.

Presenters stress their program is a drop-in event.

“If you’re only interested in finding out more about hostas, you’re welcome to attend just that program,” Hulke said.