A variety of annual vegetables are planted in the beds each year, with the aim of show-casing good-tasting varieties that grow well in Dane County and the surrounding area. In March 2019, the Teaching Garden became an official All-America Selections® Display Garden. The majority of vegetables grown in the garden are AAS varieties. Each year, team members harvest the produce to provide feedback on any new varieties, and to donate excess produce to other Master Gardeners, local food banks, and Extension employees
With a grant from the Environmental Council, drip irrigation kits were installed in 2019 to irrigate the raised beds. The irrigation systems are set on timers which saves water and hours of volunteer time in watering the garden! An informational sign titled "Saving Water in the Garden" was installed in the Edibles Garden in the summer of 2020. The UW Extension publication 'Water Conservation for Home and Gardens' provides many helpful tips for reducing your indoor and outdoor water use.
In 2021 hoop structures to support row covers were installed in several beds to reduce or eliminate insects and extend the growing season.
Edibles Garden TeamMembers of the Edibles Garden team will become proficient in:
- Planting and growing from seeds or transplants in the garden
- Identifying a plant's needs and providing basic maintenance and care.
- Sharing knowledge about tasty varieties, cooking/preserving, growing organic, seed saving, etc.
- Understanding techniques for water conservation.
Alyska Bailey is the Edibles Garden Team Leader. To join the Edibles Garden team, contact Karen Allenstein. 2024 team members include:
Alyska Bailey, 6th year
Jamie Murray-Branch, 9th year
Anna Nelson, 1sst year
Andy van Duym, 7th year
Questions?
