As Minnesota gardens settle in for winter, many gardeners shift their attention from planting and harvesting to planning and learning. Winter is the perfect time to gather new ideas, explore emerging gardening trends, and build skills for the growing season ahead.
The third annual Tri-County Winter Webinar Series offers a convenient way to do just that. Hosted by University of Minnesota Extension educators and partners, this free virtual series provides practical, research-based information for gardeners, hobby farmers, landowners, and anyone interested in plants, food production, and the environment.
Held Tuesday afternoons from 1 – 2 p.m., the six-week series covers a variety of topics, from unusual plants and fruit crops to wildlife habitat, herbs, holiday decorating, and composting. Participants can attend individual sessions or join the entire series. All webinars will be recorded and posted to the Extension YouTube channel, with access details provided in the registration confirmation.
This year's lineup includes:
- November 3 – Spooky Plants for the Spooky Season with Quincy Sadowski, Horticulture Extension Educator
- November 10 – Growing Honeyberries in Minnesota with Madeline Wimmer, Extension Educator, Food Systems - Fruit Production
- November 17 – Amplify Your Garden: Add Wildlife Habitat with Katie Hagen, Extension Educator
- November 24 – Growing Herbs: Beyond the Container with Jillian Patrie, Horticulture Extension Educator
- December 1 – Christmas Pots and Centerpieces with Tracey Srock, University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener
- December 8 – Backyard Composting with Laura Irish-Hanson, Extension Educator, Horticulture
The series reflects growing interest in sustainable gardening, edible landscaping, pollinator and wildlife conservation, and creative ways to enjoy plants year-round. Whether you're curious about growing honeyberries, creating habitat for birds and pollinators, or turning yard waste into valuable compost, there's something for gardeners of every experience level.
One of the greatest benefits of the series is its accessibility. Participants can learn from home, ask questions of Extension experts, and connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts from across Minnesota.
While the garden may be dormant, learning doesn't have to be. A few hours invested this winter can spark new ideas, solve persistent gardening challenges, and inspire next year's landscape.
For more information and to register, visit z.umn.edu/WinterWebinarSeries or contact Emily Lindenfelser at [email protected].
After all, spring success often begins long before the snow melts. Winter learning may be one of the best investments you make in next year's garden.