Low-maintenance vegetable gardening taught

The Hancock County Master Gardeners will present an educational session on "Low Maintenance Vegetable Gardening" at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at 50 North, 339 E. Melrose Ave. The program is free and open to the public. Volunteers Brint Simmons and Tim Brugeman will offer tips and tricks to select the right plants and better control weeds, along with topics like soil preparation, reducing weeds, pests to watch for and planning a good harvest. Information on small spaces for planter and patio vegetable gardens will also offer alternatives to larger field plots. Simmons helps coordinate the Master Gardener demonstration area in the community gardens near The Family Center. Over 3,000 pounds of produce are planned for this season that will be donated to CHOPIN Hall and City Mission of Findlay. Community garden plots coordinated by United Way of Hancock County are open to area residents who are also welcome to attend. Brugeman volunteers for the 50 North "Gardening in Your Golden Years" series presented by the Master Gardeners each month. 50 North has garden plots already reserved for its members, and they are encouraged to participate. Master Gardeners are affiliated with The Ohio State University Extension Service throughout the counties in Ohio and also nationwide.