By Blake Jackson
As spring approaches, gardeners and plant enthusiasts are invited to take part in UW Family Gardening Day on Saturday, May 2. This free, family-friendly event will run from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, offering a variety of engaging activities for all ages.
The event will take place across several nearby campus locations, including Allen Centennial Garden, the D.C. Smith Instructional Greenhouse, Steenbock Memorial Library, and the Wisconsin Energy Institute (WEI).
Each site will feature interactive exhibits and demonstrations focused on gardening and plant science. Visitors can participate in hands-on activities involving seeds, soil, and plants, while also learning about pollinators, birds, and sustainable gardening practices.
Attendees will have opportunities to ask questions about their own plants, explore gardening resources, and browse books suitable for all ages.
A creative garden art activity, such as rock painting, will also be available. In addition, plants and seeds will be distributed for visitors to take home, while supplies last.
Guests can take part in a “passport” activity by collecting stamps at each location. Those who complete their passport will receive a free houseplant, also available while supplies last.
“Family Gardening Day is a day of exploration for all ages. It's a fun opportunity to chat with UW students and scientists and try out interactive activities celebrating all things plants,” says Allison Bender, outreach program manager at the Wisconsin Energy Institute.
“Our researchers always look forward to this event and providing a behind-the-scenes look into some of the plant research happening on campus.”
All event locations are within a short walking distance on the west side of campus. Free parking will be available in multiple nearby lots, and visitors can also use Madison B-Cycle stations for convenient transportation.
For more information, visit https://science.wisc.edu/family-gardening-day/.
Photo Credit: pexels-greta-hoffman
Categories: Wisconsin, Education, General