Success Story: Cultivating New Gardeners at the Whitley County Extension

Engaging First-Time Participants in the Joy of Gardening

The Whitley County Cooperative Extension Service proudly hosted its Annual Beginning Gardening Class, drawing a full crowd of 23 enthusiastic participants—20 of whom were first-time attendees at any Extension program. This overwhelming response is a testament to the growing interest in self-sufficiency, healthy living, and community engagement through gardening.

Comprehensive Learning Rooted in Practicality

Designed to equip new gardeners with the tools and knowledge for success, the class covered a range of essential topics tailored to Kentucky’s unique climate and growing conditions. Instruction was delivered in a friendly, hands-on format, and included:

• Creating a Garden Plan – Participants learned how to evaluate their space, sunlight, soil quality, and garden goals to form a solid foundation for success.
•  Successful Vegetable Varieties for Kentucky – Insightful recommendations on which crops perform best in our region gave attendees the confidence to select high-yield, low-maintenance plants.
•  Tips for Successful Planting – From seed spacing to transplanting techniques, the group explored how to set their garden up for vigorous growth.
•  Timely Harvesting Techniques – Understanding when and how to harvest vegetables helped ensure flavor, nutrition, and continued production.
•  General Garden Maintenance – Best practices for weeding, watering, pest control, and mulching kept participants informed on how to sustain healthy crops.
•  End-of-Season Wrap-Up – The course concluded with strategies for soil care, composting, and preparation for the next growing season.

Equipped for Continued Success

Each participant left the workshop not only inspired but also equipped with an invaluable resource—a copy of ID-128: Home Vegetable Gardening in Kentucky, a comprehensive guide filled with region-specific knowledge to reference throughout their gardening journey.

Growing More Than Just Gardens

Beyond the technical know-how, the class fostered a sense of community and excitement around sustainable living and food production. Many attendees expressed gratitude for the welcoming environment and the wealth of accessible, research-based information.

The success of this class demonstrates the vital role that Extension services play in empowering local residents with practical life skills. As these 23 new gardeners put their knowledge into action this season, the seeds sown in this class will bear fruit for months—and years—to come.