Some of our most rewarding times in spring are when we assist local schools and scout troops in helping children learn more about plants.
During the month of April, we tour over 500 children through our greenhouses and nursery. Some are middle school students learning plant parts, how they work, what they are - annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs. Others are preschoolers young enough to love ALL the pretty flowers and enjoy the smell of fresh picked herbs rubbed between their fingers. We love to educate them on how their fruits and vegetables are actually grown, not just bought at the grocery store. We let them know that they, too can grow beautiful plants and not just for their own use but to benefit Mother Earth! Kim, Arlene, and Megan head the tours and always make a point of teaching the children how important plants are to our pollinators and in turn how important the pollinators are to our lives.
Thank you to the schools and organizations who let us help educate our youth and share our passion with the next generations.
This year Countryside is teaming up with Bonide® to reach even more children. 50% of all Bonide purchases the weekend of June 16 & 17 will directly go to Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County!
What could make it even better? Free seminars and a hands-on workshop! Here is our line up for Saturday, June 16:
FREE SEMINARS
9 a.m. What's bugging you? Natural cures and preventions for insects and diseases by Gary Graber of Bonide®
10:30 a.m. Shade Gardening Join Kim Hartmann as she introduces you to colorful alternatives for your shady areas.
11:30 a.m. Daddy and Me Painting
Friendship Frog is like a Super Hero! Bring your child, a smock and a smile to paint Friendship Frog on canvas! $10 per child. Space is limited. Pre-registration is required.
Friendship Frog will make a special appearance at the end out our painting time to meet everyone! Children 1 - 5 must paint with an adult. Children 6-12, you got this! (parents must be present)
Brought to you by:
MEET AND GREET - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Meet with
representatives
from Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County to see what they are up to in your neighborhood - perhaps there is an opportunity for you to be the world to a child in need!
Countryside offers
Our Annual Flat Sale Has Been Extended!
