County to Host Free Fall Gardening Program

Sangamon County residents interested in growing vegetables this fall will have an opportunity to learn about cool-season gardening during a free program hosted by the University of Illinois Extension later this month.

"Getting Started with a Fall Vegetable Garden" will be held Wednesday, July 29, at 5 p.m. at the Sangamon County Department of Public Health Community Garden, 2833 S. Grand Ave. E. in Springfield.

The program will cover how to grow cool-season vegetables, with attendees receiving a free packet of seeds while supplies last.

Community garden plots also remain available for the fall growing season. The one-acre garden offers 10-by-10-foot plots for $10 per season and includes access to fertile soil, water, gardening tools and complimentary seed kits while supplies last.

Gardeners can grow a variety of cool-season vegetables, including kale, spinach, lettuce, broccoli, carrots, beets, radishes, turnips, cabbage and collards, as well as herbs and flowers.

Residents interested in reserving a garden plot or learning more about the program may call the Sangamon County Department of Public Health at (217) 321-2601. Additional information is available at scdph.org.