Sow, Don’t Scroll: CSU’s Free Vegetable Course Returns to Encourage Spending Time Outside

May 18, 2022 | Member News

Now through May 26, 2022 Colorado State University (CSU) is offering a free, online, vegetable gardening course to inspire people to get off technology and get outside. Research shows that exposure to green spaces and gardening has extensive physical and mental benefits, including reduced anxiety, stress and depression, improved memory, increased life satisfaction, enhanced productivity, and more.

Normally $40 to register, the vegetable course is discounted for the next two weeks. Completing the self-paced program will teach participants:

  • Considerations for garden planning and planting times
  • Best practices for raised garden bed design
  • Proper soil preparation and fertilization for your vegetable garden
  • Routine garden care including mulching, irrigation, and water conservation
  • Proper routine care for tomatoes
  • Hints and tricks for growing other vegetables
  • How to identify frost protection tactics and microclimate modifications

Here’s what a past student said about taking the course:

“Tilling, augmenting, composting, watering, fertilizing, weeding, insects and all the rest – we were not doing it as well as could be done. The [online] course on vegetables was an eye opener on practices and techniques [for my] Colorado vegetable garden. This course is thorough and has great depth and breath – everyone can learn something new and useful.” – Michael C, Boulder County

No prior gardening experience is required to register. The price of the course increases on Thursday, May 26th. Register for the free vegetables course today at https://col.st/6i5er.

About CSU Extension

CSU Extension empowers Coloradans to address important and emerging community needs using dynamic, science-based educational resources. For over 100 years, CSU Extension has helped people in Colorado find the answers they need for a healthy home life, successful business, and thriving community. We bring the University’s research-based resources to local communities across the state. Learn more about CSU Extension at extension.colostate.edu.

About the Colorado Master Gardener Program

Colorado Master Gardeners enhance Colorado communities through outreach, education, and environmental stewardship. Powered by CSU Extension, the Master Gardener Program enhances Coloradans’ quality of life by extending science-based education to local communities, helping individuals make informed decisions about plants, and fostering successful gardeners while protecting neighborhood environments.

About CSU Professional Education
CSU Professional Education delivers noncredit personal and professional development opportunities through online courses and programs. CSU Professional Education partners with industry experts and CSU faculty, ensuring our students receive research-based, relevant instruction. Choose from date-based, instructor-led courses or go at your own pace with open-entry, student-led options. Course topics include leadership, STEM, agriculture, business, arts, humanities, and more. CSU Professional Education’s course portfolio can be found at online.colostate.edu/certificates/professional-development-online.dot