It's that time of year again.
Our annual Apple Festival here in Lincoln County,
a small town event with big flavor!
The day was cool and overcast,
but it didn't seem to deter folks from coming out!
The Master Gardeners shared their knowledge with those seeking answers.
Our booths were part of the Ag City display,
the spot where rural folks come to gather.
It was fun to be a part of the event last year,
so I was happy to volunteer again.
Our booths had the usual information about soil testing, bee-friendly gardening,
fire ant solutions and a sign-up sheet for the next Master Gardener class.
We also repeated our display about square-foot gardening,
including this handy-dandy chart one of our members created.
There was a hands-on activity for gardeners of every age,
planting seeds in toilet paper rolls, fashioned into wee pots.
New this year was information about hydroponics.
One of our members employs this method in his own garden,
along with raised beds and containers in which to grow.
It was wonderful to see how folks gravitated to certain things.
We're always happy to share gardening with others,
and find that we have as much to learn as to teach.
The alpaca booth was popular, as always.
These sweet, soft creatures manage to draw a crowd every year.
Their owners sell clothing made from their fabulous fleece.
I've heard they also give away some of their alpaca poop to gardeners!
Great stuff that, as it can be used right away.
Although I didn't get to wander around much,
(we were absolutely swamped with visitors!),
I did manage to take a few minutes to check out this display.
What a noble calling, finding heritage apple varieties!
Of course, this vintage 1940's milk truck caught my eye.
After speaking to the owner,
I discovered that his grandfather drove one similar.
He gave me a looksee and it was love at first sight.
The back section of the truck was floor-to-ceiling stainless steel,
with enclosed benches where the milk would sit during delivery.
On top of the benches was where the ice stayed,
keeping the delicious dairy cold.
These Master Gardener undertakings are always so much fun.
Not only do we catch up with each other,
we meet new gardeners and get to talk shop to our heart's content!
What could be better!
What a great looking festival to be involved in! We've been to an heirloom apple event in Reidsville a couple of times, and have brought home trees each time. The PET truck is very cool. Please share the fire ant solutions.
ReplyDeleteIt was great fun! I will feature the fire ant solution closer to spring.
DeleteThank you for visiting!
Fall festivals are wonderful! They are just the epitome of fall. It looks like a beautiful weekend your county puts on and I LOVE the square foot gardening example. I would think that would really resonate with people. I hope you and your family are doing well!
ReplyDeleteI'm so grateful to be a part of our town's celebration.
DeleteWe're doing fine, thanks for asking.
Enjoy your weekend!
Oh my gosh, the alpacas are so cute--they look like giant stuffed animals. And I would love to taste some of those heritage apple varieties! It's so cool that you are a Master Gardener. Becoming a Master Gardener is one of my dreams!
ReplyDeleteOh, Leslie, you MUST! I know that classes are often offered during the week, but maybe your Extension Center can do a weekend class. It's so worth it.
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