Two different Master Gardener demonstration gardens will be featured in two events on Saturday, July 29, at the Southeast Agricultural Research and Extension Center.

The morning session, "Getting It Right the First Time," will be offered from 9 to 10:30 a.m. to inform home gardeners how to build and maintain healthy soil using regenerative techniques as well as composting and mulches. Master Gardeners will also talk about what plants need to thrive, the role of pollinators and keyhole and square foot gardening styles. Herbs, edible flowers and tomato sampling are also topics planned for this workshop.

The afternoon presentation from 1 to 2:30 p.m. is titled "Natives - Something for Everyone." The native plant demonstration garden showcases a wide variety of species with bloom times ranging from early spring into late fall and early winter. Attendees will move through the garden to learn more about designing a native garden and selecting native plants for varying space and growing conditions. Presenters will demonstrate strategies home gardeners can use to keep spaces groomed for curb appeal. Attendees also will learn about the ecological impact native plants provide to native bees and other pollinators and how to support them in a home garden.

The events will be held at Penn State's Southeast Agricultural Research and Education Center at 1446 Auction Road, Manheim. This working farm is home to dozens of vegetable, field crops and environmental research projects, along with one of the largest flower trials in the country.

Master Gardener volunteers have designed, planted, and care for five idea (demonstration) gardens there: native plants, vegetable and herb, butterfly, potager and raised beds.

The events will be canceled if the weather is inclement. They are open to the public and free of charge. Registration is required by calling the Extension Office at 717-394-6851 or visiting http://tinyurl.com/LancMG-GettingItRight for the morning session or http://tinyurl.com/LancMG-NativeGardens for the afternoon session.

Those who anticipate needing an accommodation or who have questions about the physical access provided should contact Christa Shoreman at 717-394-6851 in advance their visit.