Have you been telling yourself and telling yourself that this year you’re going to plant some squash, or put in an herb garden, or buy one of those upside-down tomato thingamabobs? Do you swear that you really are going to try your best to grow a little bit of food so you can save money at the grocery store and experience the pride of tasting something YOU grew?

If so, I’ll bet you’re a little bit intimidated. I’ll bet you’re wondering exactly where to plant things, and how they should be fertilized, and how often you ought to water them, and whether you should look out for any particular pests or diseases. I know I STILL wonder about such things!

If this is sounding pretty familiar, I think I have some good news for you. The Virginia Cooperative Extension in Roanoke is holding two classes in March for beginner gardeners. And even if you can’t make it all the way over to Roanoke for the classes, you should know that you can always call your local extension office and see if someone there (or the Master Gardeners) can answer your questions. They are an exceptional resource. To find your local office, click here.

Here are details on the classes, “Beginning Vegetable Gardening” and “Home Fruit Gardening”:

Beginning Vegetable Gardening
When: Wednesday, March 9, 6 to 8 p.m.
Where: The Brambleton Center, Room 3F; 3738 Brambleton Ave. SW, Roanoke (Roanoke County Parks and Recreation Building)
You MUST pre-register. Call: (540) 772-7524

Home Fruit Gardening: Basic small and tree fruit gardening
When: Tuesday, March 1, 6 to 8 p.m.
Where: The Brambleton Center, Room 3F; 3738 Brambleton Ave. SW, Roanoke (Roanoke County Parks and Recreation Building)
You MUST pre-register. Call: (540) 772-7524