The addition of a Horticulture Assistant to the Gallatin County Extension staff has had a marked impact on horticulture programming in Gallatin County. It’s no stretch to say that the needs of the home gardener in Gallatin County are being met better than ever before.

In evaluative surveys given to past program participants, it was asked what types of future programming would most benefit them. While many of the responses were very generic, some were quite specific.

As a result, the Gallatin County Extension Service offered its annual “Horticulture for Homeowners” series, which covered many of the topics requested by the clientele. But what’s more exciting is the youth horticulture programming that’s gotten underway.

The 4-H Garden Club is a group of 4-H’ers and Cloverbuds that has met weekly all spring and summer. The kids have undertaken all manner of horticulture projects and activities. For example, the group has established its own vegetable and flower garden here at the Extension Office. These kids have even used some of the produce from their garden to make tasty and healthy dishes!

As a result of the Garden Club’s efforts, the number of 4-H Garden exhibits entered in the county fair has nearly doubled! The 4-H’ers have grown bucket gardens, cactus gardens, terrariums, and other things for the fair. The kids are learning by doing! These life skill will benefit these 4-H'ers for the rest of their lives.