"Gardening A-Z" Classes Underway

"Gardening A-Z," a series of free classes for those interested in starting their own gardens, are underway at the Clayton Community Center.

The next class is Thursday, Aug. 18 at 6:30 pm.

The classes, which will extend through September, are using the Community Garden at the Community Center as a "teaching garden."

"This is a continuation of our effort to establish a Community Garden and help local people learn about gardening," said Program Coordinator Matt Lorion of the Parks & Recreation Department.

The Department held its first set of gardening classes early in the spring.

Once again, Consumer Horticulture Agent Shawn Banks of the Johnston County Cooperative Extension Service is helping lead the classes. The only cost is a $15 supplies and materials fee.

Classes will be held once a week at the Community Center on Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 8 pm through Sept. 29. Please register at the Community Center or online by clicking here.

Here is a look at the upcoming classes:

Week Three: (August 18)
- Planting Seeds and Transplants
- Demonstration
•   Plant plants

Week Four: (August 25)
- Weed Control Strategies
- Demonstration
•   Plant and pull

Week Five: (September 1)
- Thinning and Watering
- Demonstration
•   Different types of water systems
- Soaker hose
- Watering can
- Hose
- Sprinkler
- In ground systems
- Low volume spray stakes

Week Six: (September 8)
- Fertility and Scouting
- Demonstration
•   Side dressing fertilization application
•   Plant
•   Begin scouting practices

Week Seven: (September 15)
- Insect and Diseases
- Demonstration
•   Continue scouting practices
•   Last week for planting
•   Identification of insects / diseases

Week Eight: (September 22)
- Harvesting and Good Agricultural Practices
- Demonstration
•   GAP practices
•   Mock harvest

Week Nine: (September 29)
- Season Extenders
- Demonstration
•   Show video
•   Work in garden
•   Answer questions