Are you interested in learning about gardening and growing fresh vegetables? Healthy Archuleta is offering a series of classes that will focus on gardening basics.
The classes are being offered starting Wednesday, April 23, from 5 to 7 p.m. and will continue for the following four Wednesdays: April 30, May 7, May 14 and May 21.
The Vista Lake Community Garden and Pagosa Springs Community Garden have both graciously offered to provide space in their beds so that class participants can get some hands-on experience in what it takes to start a vegetable garden. The classes will cover basic knowledge about soil, how and when to start seeds, pest and disease control, and proper irrigation.
Registration is open now and spots are limited. To register, complete the registration form at https://form.jotform.com/250646054697061 or visit Healthy Archuleta’s calendar of events and look under the garden course at https://www.foodcoalition4archuleta.org/events--happenings.html.
Gardening in Pagosa Springs presents some challenges when it comes to maintaining vegetable gardens. Weather, wildlife and access to water all play roles in how successful a growing season will turn out. With the short growing season of approximately 90 days, the amount of time needed to get seeds and start out into garden beds in time can have everyone watching the calendar.
However, the limited growing season can be extended by a few more weeks with a little creativity.
With access to a greenhouse, a grow dome or even a high tunnel, growing vegetables is possible as early as April and as late as October, given the right conditions.
Most vegetables will grow and mature in anywhere from 45 days to 65 days; this is true of most greens once seeds have germinated. Long-season crops such as tomatoes, squash or peppers will begin producing within 65 to 90 days; these fall within that three-month peak temperature range, that prime time to get the most out of what grows in the ground.
However, aside from the mechanics of vegetable gardening, there are other important aspects of gardening.
Gardening is good for our health for a number of reasons. Usually, exercise is at the top of that list, and it’s true, being outdoors and getting a dose of vitamin D is definitely beneficial, and it can be a good boost to our mental health. There are also the economic benefits of growing fresh fruits and vegetables in home gardens. Given the price of groceries today, growing something as easy as potatoes or onions can make a difference in our pocketbook over a season. Gardening is also a way to meet our neighbors and make connections in the community.
Now is a great time to learn how to garden and start growing some of your own food, connect with some fellow gardeners and spend some time outside in the garden.
Register now to participate in the upcoming Seed to Supper garden course at https://form.jotform.com/250646054697061 or visit Healthy Archuleta’s calendar of events and look under the garden course at https://www.foodcoalition4archuleta.org/events--happenings.html.
Spots are limited, so register today. For more information on Healthy Archuleta and learn about future events, please visit our website at www.foodcoalition4archuleta.org. You can also keep up to date by following Healthy Archuleta on our Facebook and Instagram.
Volunteer coordinator wanted
Healthy Archuleta is all about empowering the community and working to make sure everyone has access to healthy food and healthcare.
We’re all about learning and growing together to create a thriving environment for health and well-being. Our mission has been made possible by the incredible volunteers who’ve been with us through thick and thin, supporting our ongoing projects. But we’re always on the lookout for passionate and organized folks to join our team.
We’re currently seeking a volunteer coordinator to help us make a real difference. This is an unpaid volunteer role that’ll take around three to five hours a week.
As our volunteer coordinator, you’ll be the heart and soul of our volunteer program, making sure everyone feels engaged and valued. Your primary role is to collaborate with our team to help recruit, interview, offer training and supervise volunteers. You’ll also be the main point of contact for our team, helping us identify volunteer needs and match them with the right opportunities. You’ll be responsible for organizing volunteer recognition and appreciation events, and you’ll help us develop and maintain volunteer guidelines and procedures.
We’re looking for someone who’s organized, communicative and passionate about making a difference in our community. This is a great opportunity to contribute to building a community where everyone has the chance to contribute and benefit from healthy eating and overall well-being.
If you’re interested in joining our team, please reach out to Healthy Archuleta at fsfearchuleta@gmail.com.
To learn more about our work and activities, please check out our website at https://www.foodcoalition4archuleta.org/. Together, we can make our community healthier and more vibrant.
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