NDSU Celebrates 20 Years of Horticulture with Grand Garden Event

North Dakota State University (NDSU) is hosting its largest-ever celebration to mark the 20th anniversary of the Horticulture Research and Demonstration Gardens. The event is scheduled for July 29, 2024, inviting the community to participate in a day filled with educational workshops, family-friendly activities, and live music among the vibrant blooms.

Located at the intersection of 12th Avenue North and 18th Street in Fargo, the gardens serve as a living classroom, showcasing regionally adapted plants and promoting environmental stewardship. According to Esther McGinnis, NDSU Extension Horticulturist, the gardens are prepared to offer attendees a “feast for the eyes.” Visitors can explore various collections, including the renowned Historic Daylily Display Garden, which boasts the largest public collection of daylily cultivars in the United States.

The celebration will unfold in two parts, with indoor activities taking place at the NDSU Peltier Complex from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Free gardening workshops will cover topics such as “50 Tips to Make Us All Better Gardeners” presented by Don Kinzler, NDSU Cass County Extension horticulturist, and “What’s Special About Daylilies?” by Esther McGinnis herself. Pre-registration is required for these sessions, and space is limited, so attendees are encouraged to secure their spots early.

Outdoor festivities will commence at 4 p.m., featuring walking tours of the flower gardens at 4:30 p.m. and 6:45 p.m.. A special announcement will take place at 4:15 p.m., followed by a light meal served under a tent at 5 p.m., while supplies last. McGinnis will lead an interactive demonstration titled “Grow Your Best Annual Flowers Ever” at 5:30 p.m.

New this year are educational booths for adults and children, addressing topics such as emerald ash borer, NDSU tree releases, and pollinator conservation. Extension master gardeners will also be available to answer questions regarding yard and garden care. For younger attendees, a sheep petting zoo courtesy of the NDSU Sheep Unit will be open from 4 to 6 p.m.. This collaboration between the gardens and the Sheep Unit has resulted in the use of composted manure as a soil amendment, enhancing the quality of the flower beds.

In a community-focused effort, Extension Master Gardeners will accept donations of fresh produce and canned goods to support the Fargo Emergency Food Pantry. The grand celebration will conclude with live performances by the Ryne Ortez Trio, a local jazz ensemble, at 6:15 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.

This 20th anniversary celebration promises to offer something for everyone, whether seasoned gardeners or those simply looking for a beautiful day outdoors. For more details about the event and to register for the indoor workshops, visit the NDSU website at https://www.ndsu.edu/agriculture/plant-sciences/research/horticulture-research-demonstration/20years.