Trees can add beauty and value to a property, but caring for them properly can be tricky. When to prune, how to water and fertilize, which species to plant--there are many questions to consider! 

If you have questions about trees on your property or you're interested in planning a new planting, the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District invites you to attend a Tree Care and Fruit Tree Basics workshop on Saturday, March 9, from 10 a.m. to noon, at the York County Fairgrounds 4-H Building. Refreshments will be provided and there is no cost to attend, but registration is requested for planning purposes.

Back by popular demand, horticulture expert Sarah Browning will be the main speaker for the workshop. Last year, she presented a vegetable gardening workshop that was well received. Attendees for that event suggested the topic for the 2024 workshop, which will also feature NRD District Forester Kyle Yrkoski. 

As an educator with Nebraska Extension since 1998, Browning’s programming has focused on environmental horticulture, fruit and vegetable production, and food safety. Working with the general public and commercial green industry professionals, her major program goals include conserving water, protecting water quality, promoting local food production, and protecting human health.

Can't make it to the workshop but you have questions about trees? Reach out to Kyle Yrkoski at trees@upperbigblue.org. The NRD offers low-cost, bulk tree seedlings through the Conservation Tree Program each year. Species included are specially selected to thrive in our region. Orders are taken through the winter and spring, then trees are available in April in time for spring planting. Last year, more than 20,000 trees were planted in the district through this program. 

Learn more and explore other tree resources at www.upperbigblue.org/trees.

Interested in gardening, but don’t have the space at home? No problem! Check out the Project GROW community garden in York. Registration for plots is now available for the 2024 growing season. You can reserve your space now or come to the Tree Care Workshop and sign up in person.