Master Gardener, Keith Adkins, will be sharing his extensive knowledge with gardeners who want to get the most out of their plantings during the upcoming season, during his Pollinator Friendly Organic Gardening program slated for 6 p.m. on Tuesday, April 5 at the Bradford Area Public Library.

Adkins is a volunteer Master Gardener for the Penn State Extension of McKean County. He has been gardening and farming since he was a young child, of 8 years old. His love of gardening has spanned five decades.

Many people believe that organic growing is gardening without chemicals or synthetic materials, but there is so much more to it. Organic growing makes the best use of existing natural resources by working with and understanding the natural process.

Adkins’ presentation will provide a detailed overview of what it means to utilize organic and pollinator friendly practices in area yards and gardens. He will illustrate how to integrate these practices into attendees’ own gardening methods. Adkins will explain why soil is one of the most important factors in organic gardening, and will also provide a recipe and materials list for building a custom blended “Living Soil Mix.”

This gardening program will cover the basics of market style gardening practices, while also explaining why pollinators are so important to the entire ecosystem. Lastly, Adkins will show ways to control pests naturally in a way that will not negatively affect our beneficial insects and animals.

Interested in adding curb appeal to your home, or striving for an amazing harvest from your vegetable garden? This program will assist green thumbs and novices alike. Pollinator Friendly Organic Gardening is a free, in-person program. All are encouraged to attend.