Montgomery Botanical Gardens Raised Bed Workshop drew a large crowd of participants on a sunny, breezy day in April. Participants arrived at Wisdom Wood Classroom in Oak Park with a variety of interests. Each participant received a Montgomery Botanical Gardens calendar which outlined upcoming events for the remainder of the year.

Participants enjoy the presentation.
Board President Cathy Maddox welcomed attendees, introduced board members present, and recognized members of the Education committee. Tom McLemore introduced presenter, Mike Forster.
The workshop covered reasons why gardeners choose raised beds, usually because the soil is poor or has poor drainage in the growing location. Mr. Forster explained the correct type of soil needed for growth, as well as how compost and mulch enrich the soil and make growing successful. He also discussed the use of fertilizers and pesticides for raised beds.
Mr. Forster emphasized the specific requirements for raising tomatoes and potatoes to increase yield. He also discussed types of vegetables that grow best in raised bed settings.
The workshop included a demonstration of how to build raised beds. Participants also learned how to position them in relation to the sun for best results. They also learned which tools make gardening easier and more efficient. Mr. Forster emphasized the economics and other benefits of raising vegetables at home.


As he arrives for class, Cathy Maddox and Charlene Thomas thank Master Gardener volunteer Dave Toellner for his recent pruning of the boxwood hedges around the lion statues in the Gardens.