Free gardening education opportunity opens

A free gardening program is on the way for those interested in learning about growing food for themselves and their communities. Appalachian Resource Conservation and Development Council opened applications for its "Build It Up" East Tennessee initiative, a free season-long gardener education and support program for those interested in growing healthy food for their own use and for the community. ACRD encourages anyone in the region, regardless of experience, to apply. "Build It Up is about more than growing food. It's about sharing knowledge, connecting neighbors, and building community ownership of our local food system," said Bethany Gray, ARCD community outreach assistant. "Every season, we see gardens become spaces of learning, joy and nourishment." Participants will learn about soil health, crop planning, seed-saving, season extension and affordable ways to produce food at home. The program will include hands-on training, monthly workshops and gardening resources like seeds, plants and soil amendments. Those who enroll will also have access to a network of other beginner gardeners and mentors who have growing experience. Individuals and families who are excited to learn and committed to growing food for personal or community use will be prioritized in the application process, ARCD said in a press release. ARCD is also searching for partners to help launch a community garden in Washington County for the 2026 growing season. The group is looking for other neighborhoods, nonprofit organizations, faith organizations or schools who would be interested in serving as a host site for the community garden. ARCD's gardening programs are funded by the Tennessee Department of Health and the East Tennessee Foundation. The Build It Up program application is at arcd.org/build-it-up Community garden related inquiries should be sent to ashley@arcd.org or 423-427-0547.