Timely Topics
By Tom Stanley, Extension Agent
RAMGASpring Programs
Rockbridge has just had its longest stretch of consecutive days where the mercury did not extend above 32-degrees in over a decade and we remain tightly in winter’s grip.
So, perhaps this is a good week to record on your calendar the planned spring events that will be led by Rockbridge Area Master Gardener Association (RAMGA) volunteers, and remember the snow will melt, the soil will warm, and our countryside and gardens will bloom again.
As uncomfortable as these days may be, winter is an important phase for our ecosystems. A time for groundwater to recharge, life cycles to renew, and the diverse biology of our soils, grasslands, and forests to express its “winter-self” as it has adapted to do so over millennia.
The following events sponsored by RAMGA are planned for the spring.
“How Agriculture and Wildlife Can Co-Exist Using Agroecological Methods” with Joseph Martinez of Rockbridge Cider Vinegar, Saturday, Feb. 21, at 10:30 a.m. in the Piovano Room of the Rockbridge Regional Library in Lexington.
“Jump Starting Your Veggie Garden” with RAMGA volunteer Anita Tuttle, Saturday, March 14, at 10:30 a.m. in the Piovano Room.
“Beneficial Beauty: Native Shrubs for the Home Garden” with naturalist Sharon Birnum, of Richmond’s Wild Ones, Saturday, April 25, at 10:30 a.m. at the RARA Community Room, 350 Spotswood Drive, Lexington. The Native Tree & Shrub Giveaway takes place the same day and location beginning at noon following the program.
“Growing Tomatoes in Rockbridge” with RAMGA volunteer Jill Alvarado, Saturday, May 16, at 10:30 a.m. in the Piovano Room of the Rockbridge Regional Library. A tomato and vegetable plant sale will take place the same day at the same location starting at noon following the program.
More information is available through the RAMGA website, ramga.org, on all of these events. -And finally, a reminder: If you rely on a well, cistern, or spring and would like to have your water tested for mineral and bacterial content, go online to https://tinyurl.com// vahwqp-rb to learn about the water testing clinic sponsored at the end of February by the Rockbridge County Extension Office.
Cost of submitting a sample is $70 and if you do not have internet access you can arrange to participate by calling the Rockbridge County Extension Office at (540) 463-4734.
