Pulaski County is a growing community. It is projected that by 2020 Pulaski County’s population will be 71,036 or 11% more than our current population.  Many of these incoming residents will benefit from home horticulture programming

     Gardener’s Toolbox classes were held focusing on various home gardening topics.  Eleven Gardener’s Toolbox classes were scheduled and an additional 14 home horticulture classes and events were conducted throughout the year held in various parts of the Pulaski County.  This includes big days such as Earth Day and the Green Living Fair.  More than 1800 people participated in all programs.

     Many youth-oriented programs were conducted as well. Of course, adults end up getting a lot out of these programs too.  Programs on worm composting, insects, honeybees, native plants, monthly sessions with the 4H Horticulture Club and 4H Beekeeping Club, and others were conducted specifically for kids.

     During 2018-19, Pulaski County Horticulture was on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. An average of one post each day was made to these accounts during the year. Facebook page followers increased 28% over the course of the year. Postings are mainly related to home horticulture topics but also include home or commercial programs and other Pulaski County agents’ events. The Pulaski County Extension website is updated as needed.  All events are advertised through it, direct emails, and many times newspaper.

     The Pulaski County Horticulture Agent made roughly 25 home visits to help with various problems in their landscapes and 10 farm visits to commercial grower operations.  Many people ask what they owe Extension for this service.  When they are told it is free they are shocked but pleasantly surprised.  Home and farm visits are a great service that Extension provides that the internet cannot compete with. Those visits are remembered and passed along through relatives and friends.

     As growth in Somerset and Pulaski County continues, Extension will be there to educate these new citizens and ensure they are making judicious decisions in their home landscapes as well as reducing environmental impacts in this rural community.