When: September 26, 2026
Time: 9:00am-12:00pm
Where: Stearns County Service Center, 3301County Rd 138, Waite Park, MN 56387
This event is free with a food shelf donation, but registration is required.
Door prizes and refreshments will be provided
Join the University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardeners of Benton County for their Gardening Seminar.
PRESENTER: Joe Storlien, St. John's University, St. Joseph, and Stearns County Extension Master Gardener
SESSION 1: Soil Fertility for Vegetable Gardeners
Interested in growing fresh, healthy vegetables right in your backyard? It all begins with the soil beneath
your feet. This engaging lecture explores the essentials of soil nutrients and fertility, the cornerstone of
every successful vegetable garden. Whether you’re new to gardening or already experienced, you’ll gain
practical tools and insights to cultivate a sustainable, nutrient-rich garden with abundant harvests.
PRESENTER: Kelly Orton, Benton County Extension Master Gardener
SESSION 2: Food Preservation Methods
The presentation is called "Food Preservation Methods" on the MG website, but
the main topic is "Food Preservation for the Gardener: An overview of ways you
can preserve your garden produce from the Master Gardener Volunteer Program".
It's a pretty high-level overview, but I will provide handouts with some specifics.
Register: https://z.umn.edu/BCSeminar2026