The Pike County Extension office and the Pike County Master Gardener Association will host a Raised Bed Gardening Workshop from 9 a.m. until noon Wednesday at the Colley Senior Complex on Elm Street in Troy.

Grant Lyons, Pike County Extension coordinator, said that each year a growing number of Alabamians plant their own vegetable gardens because of concerns with cost, food safety and the convenience of having fresh produce in their back yards.

“To help new gardeners get started, we have partnered with the Pike County Master Gardeners to offer this workshop,” Lyons said. “It will be beneficial to seasoned gardeners, as well.”

The workshop will cover topics including vegetable gardening basics, planting techniques and drip irrigation.

Materials used and construction of a raised bed will be demonstrated and hands-on raised bed training will be offered.

“Raised bed gardens are a great option for anyone who wants to maximize space in their landscape,” said Rachel Dykes, regional Extension agent for Home Grounds, Gardens and Home Pests. “They can also help overcome poor soil conditions, limited mobility, and will decrease the amount of labor involved with growing your own food.”

Leigh Calk, president Pike County Master Gardeners Association, said there is growing interest in home gardening and members are often asked questions about raised beds.

“This is the perfect opportunity to address those questions while also educating the public further about raised bed gardens,” Calk said. “We enjoy working with our community on projects such as these and feel that this type of workshop will be very beneficial to anyone interested in gardening.”

Dykes and David Koon, regional Extension agent, will be the presenters for the workshop.

“The workshop will begin in the downstairs meeting room at the Colley Senior Complex and then we’ll move outside to the garden area for hands-on demonstrations,” Lyons said. “It will be an excellent workshop and anyone interested in gardening is invited.”

Registration is encouraged but not required. There is no fee to attend. To register or for more information, call the Pike County Extension office at 566-0985.