January 17, 2007

The calendar may say January, but now is a great time to start thinking about spring yard care. Enroll now in classes to learn how to reshape your yard in an environmentally friendly manner - and make it an oasis for birds, butterflies and your family.

Mecklenburg County offers two programs in late winter and spring.

• McPLANT: Master Composters Piedmont Landscape and Naturescape Training: The project is available by application only and will train 25 Master Composter volunteers. Attend a 12 week course beginning February 12 to learn about composting, soil stewardship, toxicity reduction, home yard care, piedmont naturescaping and habitat and natural gardening. The training is free, but volunteers will be asked to help with projects in schools, neighborhoods, the Southern Spring Show and others. Classes typically meet on Mondays at the Wing Haven Garden and Bird Sanctuary. Click here for more information and the schedule.
  
  
• PLANT: Piedmont Landscape and Naturescape Training: Attend Saturday classes March 31 - June 2 to learn the basics of composting, grasscycling, toxicity reduction, Southern xeriscaping, soil testing and habitat. You receive four hours of hands-on instruction, a how-to manual and wire compost bin. Class locations vary and the cost is $10 per session. Click here for more information and the schedule.

The schedules for both and more information are here or by calling 704-336-5359, Extension 5.