Lawn, Garden, AG and Environmental News
Thou shall not ...
Spring Lawn Care Commandments
Grass will soon start greening – but wait! Some of the "recommendations" floating around out there may not be the best for your lawn. To save time and money, read what Thou Shall Not Do this spring.
Farm Apprenticeships and Public Workshops
Educational opportunities for new and experienced produce growers
Growing Growers provides education to new and experienced growers through a farm apprenticeship program and an annual workshop series. Growing Growers is currently accepting applications for the 2019 Apprenticeship Program. It’s a great experience for aspiring growers of all ages, including high school and college students looking for seasonal work.
Tuesday, March 5 | 6pm | Free Class
Vegetable Gardening Planning 101
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner just starting out, this will help you get growing. Topics include:
  • what to grow,
  • planting requirements,
  • soil,
  • fertilization
  • tips on how to extend the growing season from spring into summer
Location: Lone Elm Community Garden, 21385 College Blvd, Olathe.
This class is free, but please RSVP.
Shawnee Civic Centre | Free
Saturday, April 6 | 9am - 2pm
Healthy Yards Expo
Learn how to have a beautiful lawn and garden while being a little more environmentally friendly. Attend educational talks, visit with vendors, and see a puppet show for all ages. Register for door prizes and other giveaways. Sponsored by Johnson County Extension, Johnson County Gov., and the Cities of Lenexa, Shawnee, Olathe and Overland Park.
Healthy Yards Expo | Sat., April 6
Native Plant Sale
Back by popular demand! Native plants recommended for KC are hard to find. These plants are locally grown and ready to thrive in your yard. Download list of plants for sale at the Expo.
Skip the Annual Fertilization With Native Species
Many plants require annual fertilization. But what about our native species?These native species are well adapted to our climate and do not require annual fertilization. If you’re looking for vegetation for your landscape or pasture, consider planting native. Check out our cost share programs for native grass seed.
Caring for Spring Flowering Bulbs
Despite all the snow the signs of spring will continue to increase. Brightly colored tulips and daffodils will trumpet loudly that spring has truly arrived! Make your bulbs last longer and grow stronger with this little bit of easy care.
Your Yard This March
Great yards don't just happen. They take careful planning. This lawn and garden calendar should help with your March planning.

Average Last Frost for Johnson County: April 15
Thursday, April 4 | 6pm | Free
The Nature of Sustainability in the Built Environment
Experience an overview of how the architecture and design industries are creating positive environmental change. You've heard about carbon footprint. Now learn about “handprinting” and how it is taking us to the next level of sustainability.
Health, Nutrition, Home, Family and Youth Development News
What's the diff?
Trendy Diets VS Healthy Eating
Vegan, Keto, Paleo, 5:2. There are all kinds of trendy diets. But what's the difference between a trendy diet versus just plain healthy eating?
Caring for a caregiver
Caring for the Caregiver
Roughly 80% of long-term care provided at home is delivered by family members. Long-term caregiving can be stressful and often lead to illness. Here are some simple things you can do to temporarily ease that stress and care for the caregiver.
Sitting: Break the nasty habit
Studies continue to report that sitting is just as bad for one’s health as smoking. But K-State Research and Extension just might have the intervention that will help you quit.
Hurry! Registration deadline:
March 15
March 17 - May 11
Sign-up Now
Grab 5 of you BFFs and register your team for this fun 8-week fitness challenge created to get you back into the swing of things by Kansas State University. Learn more.
4-H Provides Protective Factors From Adverse Childhood Experiences
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are stressful or traumatic events, including abuse and neglect. They can have a life-long impact, manifesting in problems throughout adulthood. The negative impact of ACEs can be reduced through protective factors such as 4-H programs. Learn more on how you can be a positive protective factor in a youth's life.
Free income tax prep
VITA Now Open
If your household income was $66K or less last year you are eligible to get your state and federal tax return prepared and electronically filed for FREE! Yes free! Check out the weekly dates and times here.
Classes & Events
To register online click on the class link. Or call 913-715-7000.
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