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May 31, 2026 – Decatur area families are invited to dig into gardening with Homegrown Harvest, a free University of Illinois Extension hands-on workshop series, designed for vegetable gardeners of every experience level. Monthly sessions offer practical guidance to help participants grow healthier plants and enjoy fresh produce all season long.
Homegrown Harvest workshops, in partnership with Southside Improvement Association and Coalition of Neighborhood Organizations, will be from 9 to 10 a.m. at Southside Hill Community Garden, located at 826 E. Lawrence St. in Decatur. Participants are encouraged to bring sunscreen and a water bottle.
June 12: Weeds, Water, Pests, and Disease
Tackle weeds, watering, pests, and plant diseases with confidence.
June 26: Harvesting and Succession Planting
Learn the best times to harvest and how to keep your garden producing all season.
July 24: Planting Fall Crops
Discover how cool-season crops can extend the growing season.
“The Southside Hill Community Garden is a place where students and neighbors come together to learn, grow, and take pride in something they create side by side,” says Horticulture and Natural Resources Educator Sarah Vogel. “Homegrown Harvest explores vegetable gardening basics in this location to not only gain practical skills but also discover the joy of growing food together.”
Participants are asked to register at go.illinois.edu/Homegrown at least one day before session. Due to the nature of outdoor programs, sessions may be cancelled for safety during inclement weather.
