Submitted by the San Juan County Master Gardeners.

Celebrated local author Thor Hanson invites us to step outside into our ordinary and often overlooked backyards to discover extraordinary hidden wonders, contribute to science and improve the health of our planet. Hanson will speak from his newest book, “Close to Home,” an optimistic and informative exploration into the unseen worlds right next to us.

The series continues with noted speakers and topics of interest pertinent to Pacific Northwest gardeners.

· The “Queen of Sweet Peas,” Marryn Mathis, presents “Sweet Peas – Fragrant, Sustainable Spring Flowers.”

Year-round gardener, noted entomologist and previous series keynote speaker Linda Gilkeson discusses how to “Harvest Vegetables All Year Round.”

Master Gardener Kate Yturri highlights “The Little Things that Run Your Garden,” identifying and helping our garden’s (mostly helpful) insect allies.

The workshops are one-hour Zoom presentations with additional time for questions and discussion, beginning with Hanson’s presentation on Tuesday, Oct. 14, from noon until 1:15 pm. The second session is on Thursday, Oct. 16, also beginning at noon. The following week, the sessions are again on Tuesday and Thursday, from noon to 1:15 pm. Additional information on each speaker and their topic is available at https://www.mgfsjc.org/gardenworkshop2025.html.

The entire series is $35. Registration is required (https://www.mgfsjc.org/gardenworkshop2025.html). Last day to register is Thursday, Oct. 9.

Each speaker is recorded, and paid registrants can view presentations until Nov. 30.

We hope you’ll join us!