The COVID-19 Pandemic has brought new challenges to home gardeners.  The Martin County Extension Service has over 50 families enrolled in the gardening program with many families being first time gardeners needing much supervision.  

The challenge is how to assist these gardeners and maintain social distancing.  Seed, plants and gardening supplies were distributed by placing the items on tables with the family name attached and have one family at a time stop at the Farmers’ Market Shed to pick up their needed supplies. Gardening tips and instructions were presented by cellphone, social media, use of drop box outside the office and mailing publications to the gardeners.

We have received many “Thank You” and other great comments.  We will know how successful the program is when the final production records are available at the end of the season