Garden-Related Events

Summer is now in full swing and the weather is gorgeous here in Maine. Let’s take advantage of our short growing season by learning all we can at these local garden-related events! There are many wonderful local events listed on our events page. We also share many local events on our Facebook page. In addition, we’ve gathered these listings for you to check out.

Maine Botanical Gardens

July 25th-29th: The Caterpillar Lab

“The Caterpillar Lab sets up not just an exhibit, but a functioning caterpillar rearing, researching, photographing, filming and educating facility in our hallways. Each day during the residency, you will be able to visit the lab-in-residence here, see live caterpillar displays, take part in innovative programming and witness how The Caterpillar Lab cares for and works with these amazing, surprising creatures.” Read more here

August 1st: Change is Taking Root: Toward Perennial Agriculture

“What if our agriculture could provide abundant food and simultaneously achieve real, long-term ecological sustainability? Current farming methods are a curious mix of nourishing mind and body – food, feed, fiber, history, culture, community – and threatening the integrity of the planet: soil erosion, pesticide drift, water pollution, loss of soil carbon. The Land Institute seeks a more transformative solution, rooted in the diverse nature of native ecosystems. Hear from Fred Iutzi, new president of The Land Institute, about how scientists are developing perennial grain crops that can be grown in biodiverse plantings. Learn more about perennial crops now taking root, and about how you can join us on the journey ahead.” Read more here

University of Maine Cooperative Extension

July 16th: Pickling Basics

“Ever wonder how to preserve all those great garden vegetables? This hands-on food preservation workshop will teach you the basic steps for pickling, canning, and freezing. Participants will receive a ‘Preserving the Harvest’ food preservation packet, and will learn recommended methods for preserving foods, the latest and safest recipes, about equipment to ensure safety and how to check for properly sealed jars. Participants may bring their own pressure canner dial gauge to class for a free accuracy test! Please bring a potholder with you to the workshop.” Read more here

September 12th: Preserving Tomato Salsa

“Ever wonder how to preserve all those great summer tomatoes? This hands-on food preservation workshop will teach you the basic steps for canning and freezing. Participants will receive a ‘Preserving the Harvest’ food preservation packet, and will learn recommended methods for preserving foods, the latest and safest recipes, about equipment to ensure safety and how to check for properly sealed jars. Participants may bring their own pressure canner dial gauge to class for a free accuracy test! Please bring a potholder with you to the workshop.” Read more here