The way you garden and manage landscapes can contribute to a healthier environment for everyone.
The Climate Wise Earthkeeping Garden Fair will be held on Saturday April 27, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Ithaca’s Boynton Middle School, showcasing practical ways gardeners and property owners can improve soils, manage water, and make the right plant choices. The event is first-of-its-kind in the region, and builds on the premise that drawing carbon dioxide down from the atmosphere through plant biology is a key way to mitigate climate change.
The event has been planned by members of Fossil Free Tompkins, along with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County. Event cosponsors include the Tompkins County Department of Planning and Sustainability, the Tompkins County Environmental Management Council, and many other supporters representing local climate action and garden groups.
Over 30 local groups and businesses will be exhibiting at the event with information or demonstrations on soils, biochar, composting, permaculture, pollinators and beekeeping, native plants, tree planting, invasive species, grafting, and more. Throughout the event, there will be five 30-minute talks focusing on healthy soil, water management, no-mow lawns, meadows, native plant choices, and intensive permaculture practices. In addition, short films will be shown that highlight the hows and whys of climate wise gardening.
Information will apply to every type of garden and landscape, as well as offering guidance for both new gardeners and for those with years of experience. Activities also will be geared to the young gardener.
The event is free, and the public is invited to drop in at any time or to stay for the whole day of learning and inspiration. Bring a small baggie of soil to get a free soil pH test done by Master Gardener volunteers. Free tree and shrub seedlings will be given away to all visitors.
More information can be found at
http://ccetompkins.org/events/2019/04/27/climate-wise-gardening-an-earthkeeping-fair