Make-and-Take Valentines: Make one-of-a-kind valentines for family and friends, any time the library is open, between Feb. 1-14. For grades K-5. Deming Library, 5044 Mt. Baker Highway, (360) 592-2422.

 

Livestock Guardian Dogs: Thursday, Feb. 1. Discuss Livestock Guardian Dogs and have your questions answered with Laura Faley of Hidden Meadow Ranch. Faley is a Livestock Advisor for Skagit, Island, and Snohomish counties. Hidden Meadow Ranch is her working farm near Mount Vernon, where she raises chickens, turkeys, ducks, and sheep using LGDs for predator control. Cost is $15 per person or $25 for up to three from the same farm/family. 7-9:30 p.m. at Meridian Grange, 15422 SE 272nd St, Kent. Register online at LGD.eventbrite.com.

 

Now’s The Time To Prune Fruit Trees, Here Is Where You Start: Saturday, Feb. 3. Larry Clark, owner of the former Bakerview Nursery, will share his expert knowledge of pruning a fruit tree orchard.  Class is free. 9 a.m. Garden Spot Nursery, Bellingham. See garden-spot.com.

 

Learn to Grow Organic Fruit at Home:  Saturday, Feb. 3. Learn how to keep your trees and berry plants healthy and productive. This workshop will cover the most common pest and disease issues in our area, how to deal with them effectively, and other topics. Presented by Cloud Mountain Farm Center. 3-4:30 p.m. Deming Library, 5044 Mt. Baker Highway, (360) 592-2422.

 

Creating an Indoor Succulent Dish Garden: Saturday, Feb. 3.  Karen Summers, of the Cascade Cactus and Succulent Society, reviews what types of succulents will thrive as she demonstrates how to create an indoor succulent dish garden. Class fee: $8. 11 a.m. to noon. Christianson’s Nursery, 15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon. 360-466-3821, www.ChristiansonsNursery.com.

 

Introduction to Weaving: Saturdays, Feb. 3, 10 & 17. Learn to weave using a floor loom with Aurora Lindquist. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost: $88. Ragfinery, Bellingham. ragfinery.com.

 

Coiled Fabric Baskets: Saturday, Feb. 3. Learn to make sturdy baskets from almost any kind of scrap fabric, with Aurora Lindquist. 2-4:30 p.m. Cost: $28. Ragfinery, Bellingham. ragfinery.com.

 

Designing Gardens with Flamboyant Dahlias: Saturday, Feb. 3. Join John and Kathy Willson, longtime owners of Swede Hill Dahlia Sunflower Farm for ideas, inspiration and instruction on how to cultivate dahlia plantings. 1-2 p.m. $8.  Christianson’s Nursery, 15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon. Reservations required, 360-466-3821, www.ChristiansonsNursery.com.

 

TF&F Third Annual Seed Swap: Sunday, Feb. 4. Free seeds, bring seeds, share seeds. Information tables on pollination and alternatives to pesticides, a raffle, and prizes. Everyone is welcome. 1-3 p.m. Anacortes Senior Activity Center.

 

New Dahlias 2018: Monday, Feb. 5. Whatcom County Dahlia Society hosts “New Dahlias 2018” at Laurel Grange, 6172 Guide Meridian. 7-9 p.m. Coffee and refreshments provided.

 

Birchwood Garden Club’s February Meeting:  Wednesday, Feb. 7. Birchwood Garden Club member Ken Salzman will speak on creating gardens and garden features that attract birds and other wildlife. Ken has been birding and photographing birds for over 35 years and is currently teaching classes in birding and wildlife photography at Whatcom Community College. The backyard of Ken and his wife, Stephanie, is a National Wildlife Federation Certified Wildlife Habitat that has attracted over 80 species of birds in the 15 years. 7 p.m. Whatcom Museum Rotunda Room, 121 Prospect Street, Bellingham. www.birchwoodgardenclub.org.

 

Bus Trip to Northwest Flower and Garden Show: Wednesday, Feb. 7. The Whatcom County Master Gardener Foundation invites you on this trip to the Flower and Garden Show in Seattle. Send your check (made out to Whatcom Master Gardener Foundation Bus Trip) to Master Gardener Foundation Bus Trip, 1000 North Forest Street, Bellingham, WA 98226. 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Cost: $50 (includes bus and show ticket). Contact Margaret Kassner at (860) 461-7671 for additional information.

 

Northwest Flower and Garden Show: Wednesday through Sunday, Feb. 7-11. See full scale themed gardens covering over 1 acre of the show floor, and visit over 300 exhibitors. Washington State Convention Center, Seattle. For tickets and hours, see www.gardenshow.com.

 

Sashiko Style Mending: Wednesday, Feb. 7. Sashiko mending is a Japanese style of visible mending that uses embroidery stitching to create beautiful surface designs. Learn the basics styles of mending, with Erin Duncan. 6-8 p.m. Cost: $27. Ragfinery, Bellingham. ragfinery.com.

 

Movie Night at the Co-op: More Than Honey: Wednesday, Feb. 7. Join the Free Film Series in February at the Skagit Valley Co-op, Room 309, Mount Vernon. “More Than Honey,” with special guest Bruce Vilders starts at 7 p.m. Director Markus Imhoof tackles the vexing issue of why bees, worldwide, are facing extinction. Meet Bruce Vilders, a local WSU certified beekeeper and past Co-op Board member, who will guide a discussion about honeybees after the show.

 

Resilient Gardening in Western Washington: Thursday, Feb. 8. The 22nd annual Whatcom Gardening Conference is presented by WSU Master Gardeners, focusing on food gardening, sustainability, community connections, native pollinators and habitat, gardening in small spaces, youth gardening, storage crops. Keynote Speaker Gail Langellotto presents “How Gardening Will Save the World.”  Raffle, vendors and lunch included. Includes a community garden panel of experts and more. Bellingham Technical College Settlemyer Hall, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. All welcome. Student scholarships available. See www.whatcom.wsu.edu. Contact beth.chisholm@wsu.edu.

 

Bus Trip To The Northwest Flower And Garden Show: Friday, Feb. 9. Travel first class to the show with Marcy and your friends from The Garden Spot. Get in early so you avoid the crowds and after the  show, enjoy a  glass of wine and nibbles on the bus ride home. The fee of $89 includes your early entry ticket to the show, transportation, drinks, snacks and a shoulder bag full of goodies. Bus leaves at 6 a.m. from Garden Spot Nursery, Bellingham. 360-676-5480, garden-spot.com.

 

Truffle Making 101 with Cindy McKinney:  Friday, Feb. 9. Take the mystery out of truffle making in this pre-Valentine hands-on class taught by Cindy McKinney. Learn three different flavors/techniques. All ingredients provided. Space is limited; registration required. 3-5 p.m. Lynden Library, 216 4th Street, (360) 354-4883.

 

Snohomish Conservation District’s 33rd Annual Plant Sale: Saturday, Feb. 10. All are welcome to attend and purchase native plants and visit educational booths. Demonstrations include natural yard care, building your own rain barrel, creating a backyard habitat, and other topics. Conservation District staff and Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer questions about weeds, natural pest control, plant selection and planning native landscapes. Games and information avilable for youth. Specialty items also sold. 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Evergreen State Fairgrounds, Commercial Building 400, Monroe. To learn more, visit www.theplantsale.org.

 

Learn to Grow Fruit Trees: Saturday, Feb. 10. Learn about the easiest varieties to grow, how to decide which rootstock to plant, where and how to plant, and what initial pruning and training are needed. 10:30 a.m. to noon. $10 per person or $8 each for 2 or more people, registration recommended. Cloud Mountain Farm Center, Everson. www.cloudmountainfarmcenter.org, 360-966-5859.

 

Upcycled Valentines: Saturday, Feb. 10. Drop by Ragfinery and make a Valentine for a special someone. Vintage patterns, fabric scraps, paper, and other embellishments provided. You are welcome to bring your own fabrics. 10 a.m. to noon. Ragfinery, Bellingham. ragfinery.com.

 

The Charm And Elegance Of David Austin English Roses: Saturday, Feb. 10. Becky Reed, horticulturist  and rose expert for David Austin Roses will be joining us for this fascinating  morning for rose lovers. Learn everything you need to know about roses including cultivation, planting and care. Suitable for both enthusiasts and beginners. Class is free. 9 a.m. Garden Spot Nursery, Bellingham. See garden-spot.com.

 

Anacortes Farmers Market Monthly Winter Market: Saturday, Feb. 10. Local crafts, foods, products and more. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Historic Depot, 7th Street and R Avenue, Anacortes. See anacortesfarmersmarket.org.

 

Advanced Vegetable Gardening – 5 Part Series: Begins Saturday, Feb. 10. This five part class is designed for intermediate to advanced vegetable gardeners looking to increase their knowledge and skills. Topics covered will include crop planning, crop rotation, soil fertility, composting, seed starting, season extension, direct seeding, transplanting, weed management, pest and disease issues, water and irrigation, high tunnels, winter gardening, and more. $100 for the five part series. Part 1, Feb. 10, Crop planning, crop rotation, soil basics and soil fertility, crop overview and timeline, growing alliums; Part 2, March 24, Seed starting, season extension, growing brassicas. 1:30-3:30; Part 3, April 21, Fertility management, compost, direct sowing, growing roots; Part 4, May 12, Water and irrigation, high tunnels, weed management, growing solanums, growing cucurbits; and Part 5, June 16, Planning and planting for fall and winter crops, cover crops. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Cloud Mountain Farm Center, Everson. www.cloudmountainfarmcenter.org, 360-966-5859.

 

Skagit Cohousing Informational Meeting: Saturday, Feb. 10. Learn more about cohousing throughout Skagit County. 4-6 p.m. Skagit Valley Food Co-op, Room 306, 202 1st Street, Mount Vernon.

 

Sample, Sip and Pair: Saturday, Feb. 10. Samish Bay Cheese is hosting Finnriver for a cider tasting. 1-3 p.m. Samish Bay Cheese, Bow. 15115 Bow Hill Rd, Bow, samishbay.com.

 

Seed Starting and Garden Planning 101: Tuesday,  Feb. 13. Linda Bartlett, Rosehip Farm and Garden, will share information at the Coupeville Library, Whidbey Island. This is the first of five classes in the NW Garden series developed by WSU/Island County Master Gardeners and Kathryn O’Brien of the Coupeville Library. 1 p.m. Free.

 

Friends of the Arlington Library Book, Bake and Jewelry Sale: Tuesday and Wednesday, Feb. 13-14. Featuring Valentine gifts, homemade baked goods, candy dishes, gently used jewelry, all at great prices. Tuesday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Arlington Library.

 

Red & White Masquerade Dinner: Wednesday, Feb. 14. Red & White Masquerade Dinner in the Distillery, 4 courses, $60 per guest or $110 per couple, plus tax and service charge. 6:30 p.m. Bellewood Acres, Lynden. Advance reservations required at bellewoodfarms.com.

 

Valentine’s Tasting: Wednesday, Feb. 14. Samish Bay Cheese is having a wine tasting with a Noble Wines representative, and pairing wines with cheeses. Specials in-store. 3-5 p.m. Samish Bay Cheese, Bow. 15115 Bow Hill Rd, Bow, samishbay.com.

 

Wildcrafting with the Seasons: Dandelion and Chickweed with Natasha Clarke: Thursday, Feb. 15. Gain an understanding of medicinal properties, uses, preparation techniques, identification and more. 6:30 p.m. Skagit Valley Food Co-op, 202 S 1st St, Mount Vernon. (360) 336-3886.  For more information about Natasha Clarke, see www.innerearthhealing.com.

 

Skagit Ag Summit: Friday, Feb. 16. The issues of Water, Labor, Land Preservation and Economics will be discussed. Lunch included. Followed by Local Food and Farm Mixer that evening. WSU NWREC, 16650 S.R. 536, Mount Vernon. See http://extension.wsu.edu.

 

Bellingham Farmers Market Monthly Winter Market: Saturday, Feb. 17. Local crafts, foods, products and more. Depot Market Square, 1100 Railroad Avenue, Bellingham. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. See Bellinghamfarmers.org.

 

Seed Saving for Gardeners with Terri Wilde: Saturday, Feb. 17. Learn basics of saving seed from successful vegetables in your garden. Terri Wilde has been gardening and saving seed for many years and has taught in a variety of venues. Children 13 and above are welcome. 1-3 p.m. $3-10 per person. Chuckanut Center, 103 Chuckanut Dr. N., Bellingham. See www.chuckanutcenter. org.

 

Growing Apples and Pears: Saturday, Feb. 17. This class will cover growing techniques and pruning methods for apple and pear trees. 10:30 a.m. to noon. $10 per person or $8 each for 2 or more people, registration recommended. Cloud Mountain Farm Center, Everson. www.cloudmountainfarmcenter.org, 360-966-5859.

 

How to Prune Spring-Blooming Shrubs: Saturday, Feb. 17. Horticulturist Christina Pfeiffer demonstrates the what, how and when of pruning shrubs that bloom between March and May, from azaleas to viburnums. 11 a.m. Christianson’s Nursery, 15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon. $8. Reservations required, 360-466-3821, www.ChristiansonsNursery.com.

 

Sewing Bootcamp: Saturdays, Feb. 17 & 24. Learn about the care and use of your machine. Solve basic sewing problems, take body measurements and fit items, with Brigitte Parra. $76. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Ragfinery, Bellingham. ragfinery.com.

 

Community Seed Swap: Saturday, Feb. 17. Bring seeds, plants, cuttings and garden know-how to swap and share. Free, 2-5 p.m. Coupeville Library. In partnership with local WSU Extension Master Gardeners, South Whidbey Tilth and Slow Food Whidbey Island. Open to all gardeners of all skills. At 2:15 p.m., Wilbur Purdue, of Prairie Bottom Farm, will be speaking about his family’s heritage Rockwell bean, a south-end variety Kinskey Bean and a variety of Lima that has grown well for them and the importance of seed saving. ollowed by Annie or Nathaniel Talbot, Deep Harvest Farm, speaking on local food systems and simple crops to begin seed saving with a Q & A.  The Swap concludes with the award winning documentary movie, “Deeply Rooted” sponsored by Slow Food of Whidbey Island.

 

Make Your Own Pussy Willow Heart Trellis Planter: Saturday,  Feb. 17. Join Marcy to learn her creative twiggery tricks in your planter filled with dwarf sweet pea seeds, pansies and other pretties. Enjoy blooms from February to July. Class fee of $39. 9 a.m. Garden Spot Nursery, Bellingham. See garden-spot.com.

 

Farm-to-Table Trade Meeting: Tuesday, Feb. 20. A one-day conference for food and  farming businesses of all kinds, held at Bellingham Technical College. This is the third year to partner with the BTC Culinary Arts program for lunch. Registration and information coming to sustainableconnections.org.

 

Grange Baking Contest: Tuesday, Feb. 20. The next Pomona meeting will be at the Ten Mile Grange, Lynden. Entries for the annual Baking Contest due 10 a.m. to noon. Rules available in the Program Handbook at www.wa-grange.org. A Potluck Dinner will be at 6 p.m. followed by an auction of the baking contest entries at 6:30 p.m. All welcome to come and buy baked goods. A general meeting will follow the auction.

 

From Fatigued to Fantastic with Regina Zwilling: Tuesday, Feb. 20. Get a plan to restore your adrenal health, balance your hormones and feel great again. 4:30 p.m. Skagit Valley Food Co-op, 202 S 1st St, Mount Vernon. (360) 336-3886.

 

Growing Groceries Education Series: Good Bugs, Bad Bugs, & Pollinators: Wednesday, Feb. 21. Learn who’s who and how to attract the good guys. 7-9:30 p.m. at WSU Snohomish County Extension’s Cougar Auditorium, 600 128th St SE Everett, inside McCollum Park. Register online at GrowingGroceries.Eventbrite.com. For more information or to download a form for mail-in registration, visit snohomish.wsu.edu/growing-gr.

 

Movie Night at the Co-op: Unbroken Ground: Wednesday, Feb. 21. Join the Free Film Series in February at the Skagit Valley Co-op, Room 309, Mount Vernon, 7 p.m. A Patagonia Provisions film, Unbroken Ground explores four areas of agriculture that aim to change our relationship to the land and oceans, some of which is happening right here in the Skagit Valley.

 

3rd annual Whatcom County Small Farm Expo: Saturday, Feb. 24. The goal of this event is to bring farmers and industry experts together to facilitate learning, skill sharing, networking and to connect rural landowners with the resources they need to be successful. Presented by the Whatcom Conservation District and Whatcom County Public Works. Free, all welcome. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Northwest Washington Fairgrounds, Lynden. See the Facebook event for more information.

 

Raising Poultry for Meat: Saturday, Feb 24. Learn how to raise chickens and turkeys for meat, from brooding chicks to the processing of birds for the table and the freezer, as well as for egg production. $10 per person or $8 each for 2 or more people, registration recommended. 10:30 am. to noon. Cloud Mountain Farm Center, Everson. www.cloudmountainfarmcenter.org, 360-966-5859.

 

Crepe Paper Hellebore Workshop: Saturday, Feb. 24. Craft magnificent, botanically-correct crepe paper flowers with instruction by artist Kate Alarcón. Make one flower in class; take home supplies to make three flowers. All materials and tools provided. Class fee $60. 9-10:45 a.m. Christianson’s Nursery, 15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon. Pre-payment required, 360-466-3821, www.ChristiansonsNursery.com.

 

Bonsai For Beginners With Chris Glatz: Saturday, Feb. 24. Chris Glatz, a Japanese gardening professional, was the head gardener at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Garden in Delray Beach, FL for 10 years. Chris will make it easy for everyone to succeed at this form of containerized planting.  9 a.m. Free. Garden Spot Nursery, Bellingham. See garden-spot.com.

 

A Winter Celebration of Hellebores: Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 24-25. Here in the Pacific Northwest, the blooming of perennial hellebores is a favorite late winter reminder that spring is right around the corner. Kicking off Saturday morning’s festivities at Christianson’s Nursery is a creative workshop with Seattle artist, Kate Alarcón. Pre-register to create three botanically correct crepe paper hellebore blossoms. Next, enjoy a discussion by Keynote Speaker and local Hellebore expert, Katie Miller, from Skagit Gardens to learn why there is no longer a need to wait for spring to enjoy flowers. The keynote speech is complimentary (registration suggested), pre-payment required for the workshop: 360-466-3821, ChristiansonsNursery.com.

 

Raising Pigs: Saturday, Feb 24. Learn about housing and fencing, pasture management, feed and nutrition, health concerns and care, and processing and butchering options, as well as pig breeds and where to source weaners. $10 per person or $8 each for 2 or more people, registration recommended. 1:30 p.m. Cloud Mountain Farm Center, Everson. 360-966-5859, cloudmountainfarmcenter.org.

 

Needle Felted Hummingbird: Saturday, Feb. 24. Sculpt wool roving into a delicate bird with Natalia Robinson. $29. 2-4:30 p.m. Ragfinery, Bellingham. ragfinery.com.

 

Whatcom County Cattlemans Association Annual Auction And Banquet: Saturday, Feb. 24. The Whatcom County Cattlemen’s Association invites you to join us for a night of good food and fun at the Deming Logging Show grounds. Proceeds benefit local youth to be involved in food and fiber production, college scholarships, FFA and 4-H performance awards, and Youth Fair grants to support local agricultural causes. Live and silent auctions feature items from local businesses that support food and fiber production in Whatcom County. 4:30-10 p.m. Deming Logging Show, 3295 Cedarville Rd, Bellingham. See the Facebook event for more information.

 

Edison’s Annual Chicken Parade: Sunday, Feb. 25. The Chicken Parade starts at noon. Join the fun and community in Edison. For more information, see their Facebook page.

 

11th Annual ‘Rite of Spring’ Seed Exchange: Sunday, Feb. 25. Hosted by South Fork Valley Community Association and Local Food Works! Come share seeds, plants, bulbs and gardening tips at this free, family-friendly event. No seeds to share, no problem. 2-4 p.m. Van Zandt Hall, 4106 State Route 9 near Potter Road in Van Zandt.

 

Making Amends: Healthy Soil, Healthy Garden, Healthy You with the Co-op’s Garden Jay: Monday, Feb. 26. Learn how to improve your soil’s overall health and productivity with the right stuff. The class will go beyond the NPK trinity (nitrogen-phosphorous-potassium) that’s present in most fertilizers and explore the benefits of minerals, mycorrhizae, micronutrients and more. 6:30 p.m. Skagit Valley Food Co-op, 202 S 1st St, Mount Vernon. (360) 336-3886.

 

Seventh Generation Supper: Skagit County’s Clean Tech Sector: Tuesday, Feb. 27. Transition Fidalgo & Friends present a community support and “Exploring Trends and Opportunities, by Sean Connell.” Sean is Director of Business Development and Global Competitiveness at the Economic Development Alliance of Skagit County (EDASC) in Mount Vernon. Open to all and welcome; no reservations necessary. Suggested supper donation (catered by Gere-a-Deli): $5/adult; $3/10 and under. Please bring your own place settings, or simply join us around 7 p.m. for the presentation. 5:45 p.m. at the Anacortes Senior Center, 1701 22nd St.

 

No-Sew Braided Rugs: Wednesday, Feb. 28. Learn how to craft a no sew braided rug using the four strand technique, with instructor Kirsten Wert. 6-8 p.m. $22. Ragfinery, Bellingham. ragfinery.com.

 

Movie Night at the Co-op: Before the Flood: Wednesday, Feb. 28. Join the Free Film Series in February at the Skagit Valley Co-op, Room 309, Mount Vernon, 7 p.m. Before the Flood, presented by National Geographic, features Leonardo DiCaprio on a journey as a United Nations Messenger of Peace, traveling to five continents and the Arctic to witness climate change.

 

 

 

 

MARCH

Postharvest Handling and Designing your Pack Shed Workshop: Thursday, March 1. This workshop will be led by, Atina Diffley, farmer and author of the 2012 award winning memoir, Turn Here Sweetcorn: Organic Farming Works. This will be an interactive workshop where participants are encouraged to design systems for their own farms and receive feedback from instructors and other participants. Participating farmers will receive a free copy of the Wholesale Success manual;  $70 value, this 300-plus page manual is newly updated. $15 for the entire day workshop, includes lunch. 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sustainable Connections, 1701 Ellis St. Suite 221, Bellingham. See full details and registration at http://bit.ly/2mrZgGb.

 

WSU Whatcom County Extension Master Composter/Recycler Training: Thursdays, March 1 – April 5. WSU Whatcom County Extension is hosting a volunteer training that will cover waste-related topics and offer home-based solutions such as backyard and worm bin composting, zero waste lifestyles, food waste prevention, and other home sustainability practices. The six-week class includes a hands-on hot compost pile workshop and guest lectures by waste system experts and soil scientists. Students will also tour local waste processing facilities such as Green Earth Technologies, Disposal of Toxics, and Northwest Recycling. Following the training, Master Composter/Recycler volunteers are invited to educate in classrooms, community gardens, and at special events to share their knowledge with the greater Whatcom community. 6-8 p.m., plus additional field trips as scheduled. Class fee is $90, and includes materials, field trips, and guest speakers. Applications available at whatcom.wsu.edu. Email mcr.whatcom@wsu.edu or call (360) 778-5814.

 

2018 Home and Garden Show: Friday through Sunday, March 2-4. Check out vendors from all over and get some great ideas for your next project. Sponsored by the Building Industry Association of Whatcom County. For more information, see www.biawc.com.

 

Penn Cove MusselFest: Saturday and Sunday, March 3-4. Come join us for the Penn Cove MusselFest—Coupeville’s March tradition. “Bold, briny and blue,” the world famous mussels will be the centerpiece of two days of festivities, including chowder tasting and mussel eating competitions, farm tours and activities for all ages featuring locally-flavored fun. See www.thepenncovemusselsfestival.com.

 

So Many Roses, So Little Time: Saturday, March 3. Take notes from Christianson’s Rose Buyer, Nancy Stewart, on varieties we have in stock that are fragrant, disease-resistant, easy care and are also suited well for the Pacific Northwest. 11 a.m. Class fee $8. Christianson’s Nursery, 15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon. Reservations required: 360-466-3821, www.ChristiansonsNursery.com.

 

Growing Small Fruits: Saturday, March 3, This workshop will focus on techniques for growing small fruiting plants, like blueberries, raspberries and blackberries, strawberries, and kiwis. 1:30-3 p.m. $10 per person or $8 each for 2 or more people, registration recommended. Cloud Mountain Farm Center, Everson. www.cloudmountainfarmcenter.org.

 

30th annual Whidbey Gardening Workshop: Saturday March 3. Providing gardening advice and education in gardening practices to beginner to advanced gardeners in Island County and the Puget Sound region. This workshop is produced and presented by the Island County Master Gardener Foundation at Oak Harbor High School. Keynote address by Dan Hinkley, internationally recognized plantsman, author, plant collector and lecturer. A total of 53 classes with 40 knowledgeable instructors (classes split into 3 sessions); 33 classes are new this year.  Free coffee and optional catered lunch for $12. Visit the Vendor Marketplace and explore educational exhibits. Registration is $40 pre-registration, $45 at door. See whidbeygardeningworkshop.org.

 

Ergonomic Gardening presented by Christianson’s Gift Buyer Eve Boe: Saturday, March 3. Learn the importance of warming up, proper lifting, ergonomic usage of tools and cooling down from former athletic trainer and massage therapist, Eve Boe, to produce a healthier you in the garden. $8. 1 p.m. Christianson’s Nursery 15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon. Reservations required: 360-466-3821. www.ChristiansonsNursery.com.

 

Bow Making Course: Saturday, March 3. ​​​Learn the basics of making your own traditional all-wood bow. A roughed-out board stave will be provided, as well as all the tooling and instruction to have a tillered and shootable bow by the end of the day. Basic archery and shooting instruction will also be covered. $100, includes the stave and a matched high quality bow string. Two Feathers Wildnerness School, Marblemount. See www.twofeatherswildernessschool.com.

 

Seed Starting For Vegetable Gardening: Saturday, March 3. Learn the basics of starting your vegetables from seed, indoors and out, to help you have the most successful summer harvest. Class is free. 9 a.m. Garden Spot Nursery, Bellingham. See garden-spot.com.

 

Learn How to Divide and Propagate Perennials: Thursday, March 8. Karen Gilliam, a veteran and long time Master Gardener, will give a presentation on plant division and plant propagation from cuttings. Get tips on producing new plants to older ones. Noon to 1:30 p.m. Coop Healthy Connections Rm, Bellingham 405 E Holly St, Bellingham. www.matergardener.wsu.edu, (360) 734-8158.

 

Worm And Compost Class: Saturday, March 10. Learn how to feed your soil throughout the year using materials from your own garden and kitchen. Paige will guide you through the basics of composting for small and large spaces. This class is free. 9 a.m. Garden Spot Nursery, Bellingham. See garden-spot.com.

 

Learn to Grow Organic Fruit at Home: Saturday, March 10. Learn how to keep your trees and berry plants healthy and productive. This workshop covers common pest and disease issues, soil and weed management, compost and mulches in fruit growing, and more. $10 per person or $8 each for 2 or more people, registration recommended. 10:30 a.m. to noon.  Cloud Mountain Farm Center, Everson. www.cloudmountainfarmcenter.org.

 

Repeat of Growing Apples and Pears: Saturday. March 10. This class covers growing techniques and pruning methods for apple and pear trees, and how to keep your trees healthy and productive year after year. 1:30-3 p.m. $10 per person or $8 each for 2 or more people, registration recommended. Cloud Mountain Farm Center, Everson. www.cloudmountainfarmcenter.org.

 

Design a Garden Chair Planter presented by Christianson’s Basket Designer, Laura Campbell: Saturday, March 10. Learn to transform an old chair into garden art with basket designer and wreath weaver, Laura Campbell. 10 a.m. Potting Shed, Christianson’s Nursery, 15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon. Bring your own seat less, open back chair (wood or metal), pruners and gloves. Vines, planting infrastructure and expert guidance provided. Class Fee: $85.  www.ChristiansonsNursery.com. Pre-payment required: 360-466-3821.

 

Winter Propagation: Grafting and Hardwood Cuttings: Saturday, March 10. Learn how to propagate fruit trees and other woody plants during the dormant season using grafting and hardwood cuttings. 1-4 p.m. Registration is required, $30 workshop fee.Cloud Mountain Farm Center, Everson. www.cloudmountainfarmcenter.org.

 

Landscaping Basics: Right Plant, Right Place: Saturday, March 10. Horticulturist and Owner of Every bit Handcrafted, Molly Calvin, will select three “problems” submitted by class participants and share possible solutions in an interactive class designed to help you solve your landscaping problems. 11 a.m. Christianson’s Nursery, 15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon.   $8. Reservations required, 360-466-3821. www.ChristiansonsNursery.com.

 

32nd annual Lynden Spring Craft and Antique Show: Thursday through Saturday, March 15-17. Enjoy booths featuring unique handcrafted wares, home and garden décor, gourmet treats, one of a kind gifts, repurposed and vintage treasures. Hours are Thursday and Friday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $6 adult, $5 senior, free for 12 years and under. Northwest Washington Fair Expo Building, 1775 Front St., Lynden. See www.lyndencraftantiqueshow.com, http://www.facebook.com/LyndenCraftandAntiqueShow.

 

Proven Westside Pasture Calendar: Thursday, March 15. Sponsored by the Whatcom Conservation District. Noon to 2 p.m. Ten Mile Grange, Lynden. See www.whatcomcd.org/node/215.

 

6th annual San Juan Islands Agricultural Summit: Friday and Saturday, March 16-17. Gathering of over 150 local farmers, food producers, businesses, and food advocates for two days of events, education and camaraderie in our local food community. Hands-on workshops, Taste of the San Juans, and learn from 16 sessions in four different tracks including Production, Marketing and Finance, Perspective, and Agricultural Programs and Policy. All on Lopez Island. For updates and more information visit: http://extension.wsu.edu/sanjuan/agriculture/ag-summit-2018/

 

High Impact Plants For Small Urban Gardens  That Are Deer Resistant: Saturday, March 17. Tadd Storrer of Monrovia Nursery will share this year’s collection including design tips and a list of deer resistant plants. Free. 9 a.m. Garden Spot Nursery, Bellingham. See garden-spot.com.

 

Whatcom Farm Forestry Tree Sale: Saturday, March 17. Varieties of trees available for sale, including: Sitka Spruce, Norway Spruce, Colorado Blue Spruce, Shore Pine, Mugho Pine, Grand Fir, Noble Fir, Douglas Fir, Fraser Fir, Western Red Cedar, Concolor Fir, Deodar Cedar, Western Hemlock, Giant Sequoia, and Japanese Larch. 10 a.m. to noon Lynden Fairgrounds. For more information or to place a large order, contact  whatcom@wafarmforestry.com.

 

Colorful Plants for the Shade Garden: Saturday, March 17. John Christianson presents examples of plants with tolerance from light to deep shade that provides foliage or flower interest. $8.  Reservations required: 360-466-3821. www.ChristiansonsNursery.com.

 

Edible Ornamentals: Saturday, March 17. Certified Professional Horticulturist, Lily Hirdler, will share a huge selection of unusual and beautiful ornamental plants which provide nutritive and culinary value. 1 p.m. Christianson’s Nursery, 15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon.  Reservations required: 360-466-3821. $8.  www.ChristiansonsNursery.com.

 

Growing Wine Grapes: Saturday, March 17. The Cloud Mountain Farm Center has been conducting wine grape variety trials for almost 20 years, and developing different training systems to improve grape production. Learn how to grow wine grapes in our climate, soil requirements, pruning techniques, pest management and harvesting. 10:30 a.m. to noon. The workshop will take place in the vineyard. $10 per person or $8 each for 2 or more people, registration recommended. Cloud Mountain Farm Center, Everson. www.cloudmountainfarmcenter.org.

Whatcom Conservation District Annual Native Plant Sale: Saturday, March 24. Low cost, native plants to the residents and visitors of Whatcom County. Roughly 40 species of native, bare-root, conservation grade trees and shrubs plus potted perennials are available at a great price. Local specialty nurseries participate and sell additional native and other unique species. Local vendors and community groups also on site. Come see the new mobile Watershed Explorer in action. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Whatcom Community College, Bellingham. For more details, see whatcomcd.org/plant-sale or the Facebook event.

 

Ferns: The Princess of the Woods: Saturday, March 24. Houseplant and Grasses Buyer, Eric Andrews, brings awareness to their versatility and the many varieties of these highly adaptable fronds and teaches about their easy care-especially in a winter garden. $8. 11 a.m. to noon, Christianson’s Nursery, 15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon. Reservations required, 360-466-3821.  www.ChristiansonsNursery.com

 

Growing Table Grapes: Saturday, March 24. For the past few years, the Cloud Mountain Farm Center has been trialing different training systems for table grapes. Learn how to grow table grapes successfully, including trellis design, pruning and training, fertility and pest management methods, varieties and more. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Be prepared to be outside. $10 per person or $8 each for 2 or more people, registration recommended. Cloud Mountain Farm Center, Everson. www.cloudmountainfarmcenter.org.

Gardening with Japanese Maples: Saturday, March 24. Japanese Maple aficionado and Christianson’s Staff Member, Katheryn Shiohira, will share the perfect varieties for landscape conditions. Learn through demonstration the fundamentals of pruning. 1-2 p.m. $8. Christianson’s Nursery, 15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon. Reservations required: 360-466-3821. www.ChristiansonsNursery.com

30th Annual Fairhaven Plant and Tree Sale: Saturday, March 31. This community event is free to attend and brings together local and regional plant nurseries in one spot for one day only. Vendors donate a portion of sales to Fairhaven Neighbors, which in turn uses proceeds for neighborhood projects and to help support other local non-profits. Previous beneficiaries have included Skookum Kids, Northwest Youth Services and the Community Boating Center. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Hillcrest Chapel parking lot (corner of Old Fairhaven Parkway and 14th Street, Bellingham). Sponsored by Fairhaven Neighbors. For more information: Facebook.com/FairhavenPlantAndTreeSale.

 

Additional events and updates are posted online at www.grownorthwest.com. Send your event information to editor@grownorthwest.com.