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Learning takes all kinds of forms. Some people can glean everything they need from written instructions, other perform better with hands-on direction. Unfortunately, due to current circumstances, a truly hands-on experience isn’t really an option. It’s a shame, as one of the most fun parts of being into gardening is sharing a garden with like-minded individuals. If you’ve got a phone or computer, though, you can still get advice on your garden from a professional.
Various organizations, groups, and institutions have begun holding online video classes on gardening. Ohio State University, for example, has been holding livestreamed lessons for about a month now. In addition to showing the ins and outs of gardening with a live video feed, they also field questions from interested parties about specific plants or particular methods. They have been teaching interested parties about both flower garden management and practical gardening like growing produce.
“I wanted to make sure that I continued to provide the service of assisting backyard growers, community gardeners, teacher educators or urban farmers with their production needs,” Timothy McDermott, extension educator in agriculture and natural resources at the OSU Extension said. “With the digital online format, I wanted to make sure that I could still provide that content.”
If you don’t live within spitting distance of Ohio State University, don’t assume there are no other avenues. Check out your local community and state colleges’ websites, or check your town’s local government website. There are usually postings for live classes and chatrooms for interested parties. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, start your own virtual gardening forum. If you’ve got a chat program like Skype, just spread the word around to friends and interested parties, and start chatting once a week about any interesting gardening developments. Who knows, you might be able to get a little community started.
