How to Get Big Results from Small Gardens

Outdoor container gardening is growing in popularity, but doing it well takes know-how. What grows well in small spaces? How do you choose the right sizes and types of containers?

Based on member interest, AARP has helped arrange coaching from local experts on Wednesday, May 25, at the Massabesic Audubon Center, 26 Audubon Way, in Auburn.

Audubon naturalist Kelly Dwyer and master gardeners from the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension will conduct the workshop from 7 to 8:15 p.m. The cost is $7 per person for AARP members and one guest and $9 for others.

Container gardening makes sense for people who don’t have the yard space for larger in-ground gardens, or whose knees can’t handle much kneeling.

It’s also a great way to liven up a patio or other small outdoor space while enjoying homegrown cherry tomatoes or flowers. Center director Dawn Genes said using depth, width and height creatively means that gardening in pots and planters does not have to be limiting.

“Even though you have a small space, you can have a tremendous amount of diversity and productivity,” she said.

Members should register by calling 603-668-2045. —Joe Magruder