Potato Famine, food and culture among topics at Master Gardener meeting

Editor’s note: The Jefferson County Master Gardener Volunteers announced Sunday, March 5, that the group’s February meeting and presentation was postponed. The presentation about the Irish potato famine and gardening with Shirley Brown will be presented Thursday, March 9.

The Jefferson County Master Gardener Volunteers have announced that they will be holding their next meeting Thursday, Feb. 9. 

According to information released by the group, Shirley Brown, who is a member of the organization, will be presenting information on a host of topics, including her childhood experiences of gardening with her parents, and her lifelong experiences as an avid gardener, through which she has learned efficient methods for growing food, and the importance of learning about soil and plant diseases. 

As stated in the release, as a traveler, Brown has enjoyed eating cultural foods in several countries. Within her presentation, she will share food’s connection with cultural values throughout the world, and what people in those cultures grow.

In addition, Brown will share facts about the Irish Potato Famine.

In researching the cause and stories regarding the Irish Potato Famine, Brown learned of the difficult times leading up to the Irish people’s emigration to the United States, the release stated, adding that Brown noted that she found some of that history difficult to read.

“With our ability to go to the grocery store or convenience store and purchase what we want or need, we often take it (access to food) for granted,” the release read. 

The meeting is open to the public and will include an opportunity to taste cultural food. 

A business meeting will follow the presentation. 

Addressing old business items, the group has announced that the position of vice president still needs to be filled. A volunteer or nominee would be welcomed. A May plant sale is planned.

New business will include a proposal and discussion of a budget for 2023. 

According to the release, members have received a request from the “Green Thumbs” School Garden Club for 2023 Jung Garden catalogs. Requests also have been made for old garden or flower seeds for a 4-H project and a “Chaos Garden.” 

Those planning to attend are asked to bring catalogs and seeds to the meeting or the items can be dropped off at the Extension Office. 

Members are reminded that the PBS Garden Expo will be held Friday through Sunday, Feb. 10-12. The expo offers a wide range of educational seminars, demonstrations and booths, the release stated. 

The upcoming in-person Jefferson County Master Gardener Volunteers meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. at the County Extension Office, 864 Collins Road, Jefferson. 

Those with questions are encouraged to contact Kim at the UW-Extension Office, by phone: 920-674-7295 or by email: kimb@jeffersoncountywi.gov.

Potatoes, file photo/Kim McDarison. 

This post has already been read 857 times!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *