By Hannah Sewell
Have you ever wanted to get rid of those pesky weeds in your yard? What about the annoying insects? Curious to know your soil’s pH level?
The Institute of Agriculture can help. The 9th annual Fruits of the Backyard Field Day, scheduled for June 13 at the Middle Tennessee Research and Education Center in Spring Hill, will allow gardeners to find out what is happening in their backyards. Bring a sample of any soil, fungus, plants or insects to be tested by experts.
The event also includes three panel speakers, an open question/answer discussion and an assortment of booths and vendors.
“Educational topics, displays and demonstrations will provide insight into the production of fruits and vegetables, maintenance of lawn grasses and ornamentals, and control of harmful insects and weeds,” said Kevin Thompson, center director. “Please plan to attend and bring an interested neighbor as this program has been developed to help you make your backyard a more productive and enjoyable place to spend time with family and friends.”
The event’s three educational presentations begin at 9:30 a.m. and conclude at 11:30 a.m., followed by a question/answer session. Natalie Bumgarner will speak on vegetable production opportunities in residential environments, John Skinner will discuss backyard honey production and David Lockwood will speak about the King of Fruits—Johnny Appleseed.
Learn how to make the most of outdoor space by asking questions of the panelists, additional UT specialists and local area farmers.
Fruits of the Backyard is a free event open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early.
WHEN:
June 13 from 8:30 a.m.
to 12:30 p.m.
WHERE:
Middle Tennessee Research
and Education Center
1000 Main Entrance Drive,
Spring Hill, Tennessee, 37174
For questions about Fruits of the Backyard or any of the 10 field day events hosted by AgResearch and Education Centers across the state, call Cyndi Petty at 931-486-2129 or Kevin Thompson at 931-797-6642.
Additional field days and activities are planned throughout the year: https://ag.tennessee.edu/Pages/fielddays.aspx.
Tags: gardening, UT Institute of Agriculture, UT Road Trip
