By Scout Nelson
North Dakota State University’s Horticulture Research and Demonstration Gardens celebrate their 20th anniversary this year with a special community event on July 29 in Fargo. The gardens serve as a living classroom that connects people to the beauty and science of plants, focusing on regional plants, environmental care, and historic plant preservation.
The event starts indoors at the NDSU Peltier Complex from 1:30 to 4 p.m. with free gardening workshops. Topics include “50 Tips to Make Us All Better Gardeners” by Don Kinzler, “Evolution of the NDSU Gardens” by Barbara Laschkewitsch, and “What’s Special About Daylilies?” by Esther McGinnis. Space is limited, so registration is required.
Outdoor activities begin at 4 p.m., starting with a special announcement at 4:15 p.m. Guests can enjoy garden walking tours at 4:30 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. A light meal will be served at 5 p.m. while supplies last. At 5:30 p.m., Kinzler will present a live demo on growing annual flowers.
This year’s event also features educational booths on topics like tree care, crop origins, weed identification, and pollinator conservation. Extension Master Gardeners will be available for questions and to collect food donations for the Fargo Emergency Food Pantry.
Kids will enjoy a live sheep learning station from 4 to 6 p.m., showcasing a fun partnership between the gardens and the NDSU Sheep Unit.
The evening wraps up live jazz by the Ryne Ortez Trio at 6:15 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. in the garden setting.
Photo Credit: pexels-patrick-jennings
Categories: North Dakota, General