Spring Starts Early at Gardeners’ BIG Day
By - Nicole Flowers-Kimmerle, Horticulture Educator
Even though it is still winter, gardeners across the region start looking forward to a spring event on the calendar: Gardeners’ BIG Day. This annual event returns on March 14, this time in a new location, Cuba High School.
Though the venue has changed, the spirit of the event remains the same. Starting at 8 a.m., the building will be filled with garden and nature enthusiasts ready for a day of learning and fun.
Learning from Local Experts
This year’s program offers a wide range of topics for gardeners of all experience levels. “Grow Great Gourds and More!” with Suzanne Cook, dives into the practical techniques behind producing healthy, high-yield gourds, pumpkins, and squash.
“Creature Comforts: Attracting Wildlife to Your Yard,” led by Ellen Denler, explores how simple landscape choices can create thriving habitats for birds, pollinators, and beneficial insects.
Karen Corrigan’s session on botanical teas offers information about herbs, flowers, and leaves that can be grown and blended into teas at home. Be inspired to plant something new in your garden.
Creativity in Full Bloom
Gardeners’ BIG Day also provides space for hands-on workshops. The watercolor botanical workshop, led by Allie Goudy, invites participants to slow down and observe the delicate details of petals and foliage. Meanwhile, the floral design “cake” workshop gives attendees the chance to build a whimsical, flower-filled centerpiece.
Artist Julie Wasson leads the Rockin’ Your Garden Art workshop, where participants paint durable garden stones that brighten outdoor spaces long after the event ends.
Digging Deeper into Science and Stewardship
Beyond the creative sessions, Gardeners’ BIG Day also offers opportunities to deepen scientific understanding and environmental awareness. Valerie Wolfe will guide participants through the roles of micro- and macronutrients in soil health. Tara Heath will provide timely updates on interpreting pesticide labels, including new EPA guidance related to endangered species.
For anyone who sees gardens as places of discovery, May Bach’s “Nature as a Classroom” explores how outdoor spaces can spark curiosity and learning in people of all ages.
Between sessions, attendees can enjoy snacks, browse vendor tables, and connect with fellow participants.
Registration is $20 through February 1 and $25 through March 6, with sessions filled on a first come, first served basis.
This event is coordinated by University of Illinois Extension staff, Master Gardeners, and Master Naturalists. For event details and registration link please visit Go.illinois.edu/GBD26. Contact Ainsley Olsen, horticulture program coordinator, for reasonable accommodations at ainsleyo@illinois.edu or 309-547-3711.