Last night our Grow Breathitt County participants met to learn about planting their gardens. Approximately 55 people were in attendance. Ty Back welcomed all of the participants to the meeting. Dr. David Ditsch went over soil tests and talked about the importance of Phosphorous and Potassium and also talked about why we do not test for Nitrogen in a soil test because it is so volatile and is constantly changing. Jim Marshall then demonstrated the proper plant spacing to the group using our Garden Stick that is made right here in Jackson. (Call us for more info on ordering (606-666-8812); $8 ea.). Jim also demonstrated a technique for tying tomatoes (also using the Garden Stick) and also demonstrated a quick efficient way to stake green beans. Participants asked many questions and seemed to enjoy the evening.
We wrapped up by distributing plants such as peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, eggplant, parsley and dill. First year participants also picked up their tools, harvest buckets, string, and bean and tomato poles. This was by far the biggest meeting we have had in the three years we have participated in Grow Appalachia. We are thankful for the sponsorship and see first hand the educational benefits that this program is providing in our community.
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