Success StorySustainable Alternatives



Sustainable Alternatives

Author: Jamie Dockery

Planning Unit: Fayette County CES

Major Program: Home & Consumer Horticulture

Plan of Work: Gree nand Sustainable Living

Outcome: Long-Term Outcome

Lexington is home to an educated population that values environmentally sound gardening practices. There is great demand for information related to beneficial insects and pollinators, natural pest management strategies and native plants. In an effort to encourage sustainable practices Fayette County horticulture staff and volunteers offer classes realted to these topics. When possible we provide plants or seeds to encourage residents to implement what they have learned. In a survey of participants we found that 98% reported they had shared their new knowledge with others, dramatically expanding our reach. Some of our clients shared comments like these:,

 "The variety of plants and vegetables I've grown has increased phenomenally since attending Toolbox classes! I can begin planting something new to me with confidence, but also have class materials to refer to if I have questions. So my knowledge and experience continues to grow, and I can barely wait for each new class! My neighbors not only comment on my lovely flowers but ask me advice on theirs! I encourage them to take Toolbox classes so they can learn more too!"

" I have enjoyed growing more beautiful and a greater variety of tomatoes, herbs, annuals, and perennials since I started taking Toolbox classes 4 yeas ago. I have learned better techniques and methods that have improved my gardening efforts. I am more confident in my gardening choices" 

"As a new gardener, I have made more educated decisions about what I plant, where I plant, and how I take care of my garden. Thank you!"








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