‘Learn by Doing’ Home Horticulture Programs

Programs that include a ‘learn by doing’ component are as popular with adults as they are with youth. Adults learn best when there is an immediate application of what they have learned. Home horticulture educational efforts were expanded in 2017 to include partnerships with the Pennyrile Allied Community Services, Women Helping Women, the Lyon County Homemaker’s Annual Day and a monthly series, beginning in October, with the Senior Citizens Center. 

Programs have included the following:

• Container vegetable gardening, 
• Spring flower/bulb containers, 
• Succulents planted in driftwood, 
• Wreath and Christmas ornaments class using natural materials. 

Participants shared their own backgrounds, experiences and tips as they planted containers and created wreaths. 

The Calloway County Master Gardener Class also visited Lyon County. Two topics were taught and both included activities. For the pesticide class each participant chose a pesticide to learn about. They read the label, answered a questionnaire and then introduced their product to the class. For the water quality component the class went out and tested a pond for pH, total dissolved oxygen, conductivity, temperature and other measures used for water quality. Participants indicated they enjoyed the activities.