BLANCHARDVILLE — Those interested in growing garden produce in a straw bale or hearing the pros and cons from someone who has been doing it can attend a tour through the Green County Master Gardeners.

The Green County Master Gardeners will hold their monthly tour at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 23 at Dave and Marlys Reeson’s home, located at N8977 York Center Road, Blanchardville. Dave and Marlys will be the hosts and show those in attendance how they grow vegetable and produce in their straw bales.

Dave and Marlys have been growing in straw bales for about three years. The first year, they started with six bales and learned along the way by trial and error, ways to improve. Marlys originally selected the straw bale gardening idea due to listening to Joel Karsten, author of Straw Bale Gardens Complete on a radio program. The straw bale gardens were experimental, as they already had two large gardens of produce they care for. 

After the first couple years, the straw bale garden has now grown to 12 bales. It’s an excellent way to allow their grandchildren to participate in the garden processes. This year they also are experimenting with two big square hay bales, which are definitely “raised” beds. 

Anyone interested in horticulture and gardening is welcome to join the tour or join the association and you do not have to be a Master Gardener to be a member. For more information on the UW-Extension Master Gardener program contact the Green County UW-Extension at 608-328-9440.