As winter begins to loosen its grip and seed catalogs start appearing on kitchen tables across Archuleta County, Healthy Archuleta invites community members to gather for the next Growers and Producers Forum on Thursday, March 12.
The meeting will take place from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at the Community United Methodist Church on Lewis Street and will focus on one timely and practical topic: how to start a vegetable garden.
Designed for both first-time gardeners and seasoned growers, this session will feature a panel of local producers who understand what it takes to grow food successfully in our high-country climate.
They will walk participants through the essential first steps of launching a garden project, including how to select and prepare a site, build healthy soil, and decide between in-ground planting and raised beds.
The conversation will also cover what to plant and when, along with watering and fertilizing practices, composting garden trimmings, and incorporating perennial fruits, herbs, and vegetables for long-term productivity.
Gardening at elevation comes with challenges, including a short growing season and fluctuating temperatures. Yet, with thoughtful planning and a few practical guidelines, it can be both achievable and deeply rewarding.
Homegrown vegetables nourish not only our families, but also our local environment. Growing food in healthy soil reduces reliance on outside resources, strengthens sustainability and reconnects us to the land that sustains us.
As spring approaches, this is the season to begin preparing, shovels ready, wheelbarrows nearby and seeds selected with intention.
Healthy Archuleta’s Growers and Producers Forum exists to support exactly this kind of community learning. Through education and the sharing of local expertise, the forum helps strengthen Archuleta County’s local food system one garden at a time.
The meeting is free and open to the public, with options to attend in person or via Zoom. Those wishing to join virtually may request the Zoom link by emailing fsfearchuleta@gmail.com.
To learn more about the Growers and Producers Forum or to explore other upcoming events, including the 2026 Archuleta Food Summit, visit www.foodcoalition4archuleta.org/events--happenings.html.
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