'Spring into Green' is a long established multi-county program in the Purchase Area. This event brings participants from eight counties to gain information from educational workshops and demonstrations. This year, 'Spring into Green: In the Garden' edition, was hosted by the Purchase Area Family and Consumer Science agents at the Graves County Extension Office. Speakers discussed topics related to the garden that included ‘Gardening in Containers’, ‘Cooking with Herbs’, and ‘Growing Flowers.’ The goal of this event was to teach participants about health benefits and sustainable gardening practices such as raised beds and container gardening. Participants learned how to utilize locally grown/sourced produce in their everyday practices such as meal prep.

Of the eighty-three (83) participants 72% were first time program participants. 80% of participants stated they gained knowledge in how to utilize space with container gardens. 90% stated they gained a greater understanding of health benefits using fresh herbs in cooking. 69% of stated they plan to start growing herbs/produce. Participants stated that they never gave much thought to where their fresh produce came from and will make a more conscious effort. Several stated “Learning more about buying and growing local herbs and produce is very useful information.” One participant commented “The speakers inspired me to try new methods when it comes to gardening and using my produce.”