Arboretum workday is Aug. 7

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Volunteers of the Chadron State College Arboretum will learn horticultural skills during a storm-response fall planting and iris care workday Saturday, Aug. 7, from 9 a.m. to noon.

The group will meet at the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center at 9 a.m. for a brief lesson on the needs of plants and soils this time of year and special needs after storm events such as Chadron’s hail and wind storm of July 22. Following the lesson, the volunteers will move to the east side of campus and put the lesson to work in areas near the Math and Science Building.

“Light fertilization after a hail storm like the one we just had can really help annual and perennial garden plants bounce back and regrow more quickly,” said Lucinda Mays, Chadron State College horticulturist. “We plan to combine post-storm plant care with rejuvenating a mature iris planting. Mid-July through mid-August is the best time of year to dig iris rhizomes for replanting, whether or not we’ve had a storm.”

Other topics addressed include benefits of planting trees and shrubs in autumn, and controlling warm season weeds.

The arboretum hosts volunteer learn and work days on campus about every 6-8 weeks. These events are Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Volunteers of all ages and experience levels are encouraged to join. They are encouraged to bring water bottles, sunscreen, hat and gloves, and favorite garden tools.

-CSC Information Services

Category: Campus Events, Campus News