Wander through the K-State University field trials, and get a first look at some of the hottest trends in plants before they hit the garden centers.
The K-State Research and Extension Horticulture Center’s Field Day is from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, July 30 in Olathe and includes garden tours, classes and a chance to talk to the experts about the newest plant varieties. Visitors can speak with university professors heading up the research and Johnson County Extension Master Gardener volunteers. The K-State Research and Extension Center is also working with area farmers to support the growing local food movement. The research center develops its list of recommended grasses, flowers or vegetable varieties through university research conducted in Olathe to determine what grows best in our Kansas City landscapes.
Some of the highlights include:
- High tunnel production systems with tomato, pepper, spinach, strawberries, blueberries and berry brambles
- Vegetable grafting
- Soil health and microbiology studies using cover crops and no-till systems
- Growing Growers training for first-generation farmers in the Kansas City/Lawrence area
- Annual flower trials of 600 cultivars planted for evaluation in the Kansas City climate
- Pollinator friendly annuals for attracting butterflies and pollinators
- Master Gardeners Backyard Demonstration Garden that showcases “foodscaping” using various methods of growing vegetables including raised beds, vertical gardening and a new spin on the square-foot garden concept.
Get a free soil test
Johnson County residents can bring a soil sample and get one free soil test per address, complements of Johnson County Stormwater Management. A soil test determines the nutrients in the soil that will support growing healthy plants. Go to the K-State Research and Extension website to learn how to take a soil sample.
Field day admission is $5 per person, which includes tours, seminars, classes, demonstrations and bottled water. Lunch will be available for purchase during the event. For information call 913-715-7000, or visit K-State Research and Extension. The Research Center is located at 35230 W. 135th St., Olathe, KS. The entrance is approximately nine miles west of Highway 7 on 135th Street.