In 2020, our daily routines were altered as a pandemic swept across our nation.  Traditional in-person Extension programming was halted: however, the needs of local citizens remained.

The Adair County Extension staff worked together to develop a “grab and go” educational gardening program to provide families educational assistance in planting, growing, and harvesting fresh homegrown produce.

Seeds and plants were donated and purchase from local businesses.  Extension agents developed fact sheets on planting, fertility, pest management, harvesting, and food preservation.  Supplies and educational materials were distributed via a series of “grab and go” educational events where participants could pick up the materials in a safe manner.

A total of 42 families participated in the program.  Evaluations revealed that this was the first time 40% of the participants had ever grown a garden. 100% of the participants found the educational information helpful.  53% of the participant’s gardens produced excess items that were frozen or canned for later consumption.   Survey results revealed the program allowed families to spend more time together, increase exercise, and consume more fresh produce.  

Ten youth entered garden produce in the Virtual Floral Hall that was from the family garden.  Three youth had some of their gardens produce entered in the 2020 4-H Virtual Cloverville for the 2020 State FAir.