Garden Learning at the Minnesota State Fair

There’s a lot to learn at the Minnesota State Fair — and not just about how many foods can be deep-fried!

The Agriculture/Horticulture building where the MSHS booth is located is filled with interesting places to stop and learn. The crop art show is amazing! The U of M Master Gardeners are there to answer questions, and you’ll find displays on apples, vegetables, and lots of other horticulture related topics.

You can also hear more in-depth information about gardening topics at The Dirt stage, which is located on the north side of the building, right near our booth.

For example, here’s what topics will be covered today and tomorrow:

Sunday, Aug. 31

2 p.m., Joel Karsten: “Learn To Grow a Straw Bale Garden.”

3 p.m., David Gray: “Tomatoes: Indeterminate versus Determinate.

What’s the difference, and what’s the best choice for you?”

4 p.m., Crystal Boyd: “The Buzz about Native Bees.”

5 p.m., Bryan Lawrence: “Where the Green Grass Grows.”

Monday, Sept. 1

10 a.m., Pine Tree Apple Orchard: “Growing Apples in Minnesota.”

11 a.m., Karen Zierdt: “Knowing and Growing Dahlias.”

Noon, Bob Dahm: “Organic Lawn Care.”
1 p.m.: Jim Calkins: “Landscaping for Wildlife.”

2 p.m.: Joel Karsten: “Learn To Grow a Straw Bale Garden.”

4 p.m.: Rachael Cochrane: “Heirloom Beans from Start to Finish.”

We have books and information related to many of these topics. Stop by and say hello at the fair!