Master Gardener workshops offered Aug. 19 through Oct. 29

The Master Gardeners of Sussex County have planned a diverse and interesting series of workshops for August through October. Space is limited in some classes, so prompt registration is encouraged.

Classes are free unless otherwise specified, and all will be held at the Elbert N. and Ann V. Carvel Research and Education Center, 16483 County Seat Highway, Georgetown, just west of Sussex Tech.

At 10 a.m., Tuesday, Aug. 19, grownups, kids and grandkids will enjoy the lively workshop Bugs, Butterflies, and Worms hosted by Master Gardeners Brent Marsh, Fran Meehan, Sally Moneymaker and Gainor Urian. The class will explore the demonstration garden, looking for interesting insects of all varieties. The butterfly garden and caterpillar café should be teeming with wildlife. Participants will learn about worm composting and get to feed the worms.

Master Gardener Sandi Dew will present a Leaf Castings workshop in two parts: 1 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 11, and 1 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 16. Participants will cast a live leaf into concrete to create a unique garden ornament or bird bath. All materials including large leaves will be provided, but participants can also bring their own. Wear work clothes and shoes, bring long rubber gloves, and also an adventurous spirit.  Limit 12 participants. Fee $15.

At 1 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 23, Master Gardener Barbara Sikora will lead A Gardener's Scrubber, a workshop on luffa gourds. A luffa sponge with soap will gently clean up gardening-soiled hands. Learn about growing luffa gourds, harvesting them, and making the scrubbers. Participants will make a scrubber to take home. Limit 10 participants.  Fee $2.

In “Using Herbs - Culinary, Beverage, and Potpourri,” offered at noon, Tuesday, Sept. 30, Master Gardener Lana Ward will present a journey through the delights and uses of herbs to flavor meals and beverages and also fragrance surroundings. In addition to discussing the use of herbs, participants will sample a few recipes and enjoy the aromas.

At 7 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 7, Master Gardener George Dellinger will present a hands-on workshop, Create Your Own Bonsai. Bring needle-nose pliers, scissors, and the desire to join in the fun of a do-it-yourself workshop.  Master Gardeners will supply the plant, container, materials and instructions. Limit 12 participants. Fee $15.

At 7 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 29, Master Gardener Jackie McPeak will offer Fall/Thanksgiving Flower Arranging. Participants should bring their own decorative containers, large enough to hold a plastic container and oasis six inches by six inches to design a centerpiece for a table or an arrangement for a counter. Also bring a pair of pruners. Master Gardeners will provide a plastic container, oasis, and flowers. Participants who have a few favorite garden flowers, greens with berries or unusual foliage should bring them.  Limit 25 participants. Fee $10.

Preregister for workshops by contacting Tammy Schirmer at 302-856-2585, Ext. 544 or email tammys@udel.edu. Register online at  extension.udel.edu/lawngarden/master-gardener-volunteer-educators/sussex-county/workshops.

Master Gardeners are working volunteers and are supported by Delaware Cooperative Extension through the University of Delaware and Delaware State University Extension offices. It is Delaware Cooperative Extension’s policy that that no person shall be subjected to discrimination on the grounds of race, creed, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, veteran or handicap status. Those with special needs that need to be accommodated should contact the office two weeks prior to the event.