Plan now for giving later.

It's a busy time of year for gardeners! As a Hennepin County Master Gardener, I'm involved with a few programs that

require quite of bit of time and planning during April.

Last year, Cargill Corporation started an employee volunteer program whereby they planted vegetables in a company owned garden then donated their produce to local food shelves. As a Master Gardener, I assisted in planning, instructions and 'bug advice.'

Over 60 volunteers showed up Tuesday (some still in business clothes). They turned the soil, added compost, marked out their plots and planted cool weather vegetables. In a month or so, they'll plant tomatoes, peppers and other warm weather crops.

In all, they hope to donate over 1,500 pounds of vegetables! (last year they donated 800 pounds)

Imagine how these fresh vegetables will put smiles on hungry, needy family's faces!

It's not too late if you want to organize a group of friends/co-workers to work together to give. If you're not a green thumb, attend a Master Gardening Program at your local library.

As a community garden you'll need 'rules' and 'assignments' but if everyone has a good attitude it can be done! There are hungry people in Minnesota that will benefit from the nutrition and taste of fresh vegetables. AND, it's fun to garden with friends.