Penn State Extension's Southeast Agricultural Research and Extension Center (SEAREC), 1446 Auction Road, Manheim, will be open to the public until Wednesday, Aug. 31, from dawn to dusk. This research farm is the site of dozens of vegetable, field crop, and environmental research projects; one of the largest flower trials in the country; and five Master Gardener-designed idea (demonstration) gardens.
Master Gardener volunteers have designed, planted, and cared for five idea gardens: native plants, vegetable and herb, butterfly, potager, and raised beds. Members of the public can use these gardens to learn gardening techniques, discover novel plants, and get fresh ideas for their home and community gardens. There are also gardens at the pergola and the Welcome and Research Centers, as well as in-ground perennial and annual trials. The farm also includes Blooms and Butterflies - also known as Bees, Bugs, and Blooms - a large, established native plant trial plot that is 10 years old. Through the years, a variety of research projects have been conducted in the plot, and Master Gardener volunteers continue to monitor and track pollinator activity there.
Anyone who wants to beat the heat should visit early in the day as shade is limited. The best opportunities to view butterflies, bees, and other pollinators will be on warm, sunny days. Site maps and educational materials are available at the Welcome Center; visitors are asked to return the maps when they have finished their visit.
Penn State's Master Gardener program has been serving Lancaster County since 1988. Approximately 110 volunteers educate the public on sustainable horticulture and environmental stewardship through a Garden Hotline, webinars and classes, demonstration gardens, and poison prevention programs in schools. To reach the Lancaster County Garden Hotline, call 717-394-6851 or email LancasterMG@psu.edu.
Leave a Review