Despite social distancing requirements, Lane County Master Gardeners are still finding ways to support the local community with science-based garden advice – and with plants.  In May, Master Gardeners donated over 2,200 vegetable and annual starts to community gardens, senior living centers and individual families’ “pandemic plots”.

When the traditional spring plant sale was cancelled, Master Gardeners found a way to distribute the plants they had grown.  Vegetable starts were provided to Huerto de la Familia for their four community gardens and to Eugene Area Gleaners, an all-volunteer food distribution organization.  “People were very excited today” said Jennifer Denson of Burrito Brigade upon receiving two boxes of vigorous tomato starts.

Science-based Garden Resources

Local gardeners are growing more produce than ever this year, with many families breaking ground on a vegetable plot for the first time.  OSU Extension publications are a great resource for new or experienced gardeners – need some help with tomatoes or tomatillos?  This free resource is offered in English and Spanish: https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/ec1333

Master Gardeners are Ready to Help

While the Eugene office is closed to visitors, Master Gardeners’ Plant Clinic volunteers are still available, working remotely to answer your questions.  Just leave a phone or email message and a Master Gardener will contact you to help resolve your growing problems.

Hours of operation: Monday-Thursday 9 am - 4 pm

Master Gardener Plant Clinic Message phone: 541-344-0265

Email questions and photos: [email protected]

For more information about these valuable services to local families:

Lane County Master Gardeners Association:  https://www.facebook.com/LaneCoMGA/

OSU Extension:  https://extension.oregonstate.edu/mg/lane/have-gardening-question

Huerto de la Familia:  https://huertodelafamilia.org/

Eugene Area Gleaners:  https://eugeneareagleaners.com/

Burrito Brigade:  https://www.facebook.com/EugeneBurritoBrigade/