Library to present free horticultural how-to workshop

Deborah Kates will present a program on organic gardening at the Chester County Library on April 6.

Longtime organic gardener Deborah Kates promises to unearth her best horticultural tips in a program at the Chester County Library in Exton entitled “Let’s Get Dirty!  Learn To Love Organic Gardening.”

It will be held Saturday, April 6, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. in the Struble Room. Reservations are required.  Please visit www.ccls.org for more information.

According to Kates, anyone can garden without harmful chemicals, whether in a backyard, on a porch, or in a window box.  Her presentation will include an overview on topics such putting your garden in the best light, arranging beds for optimum results, selecting seeds and plants, making compost, attracting friendly insects to increase yield and discourage pests, and saving money.

Geared toward beginning and intermediate gardeners, the program will also feature a short history of the organic growing movement and why it matters. Participants should bring notebooks and pens.

Kates, a Coatesville-area resident, is a third-generation gardener who has been tilling organically for more than 35 years and is a certified master composter.  She conducts classes and workshops on the art of organic gardening for wellness programs at various venues throughout Chester County and Philadelphia.

The library is located at 450 Exton Square Parkway in Exton.