The University of Illinois Extension and the U of I Extension Master Gardeners will host the 28th annual Joys of Gardening program on Feb. 28, at the Highland Community College Student Conference Center, 2998 W. Pearl City Road, Freeport.
Registration begins at 8 a.m., with the program starting at 8:25 a.m., according to a community announcement. The event will feature a keynote presentation followed by two breakout sessions.
Learn about attracting hummingbirds
The keynote speakers, Kathi and Michael Rock, will present “Gardening for Hummingbirds.” The session will cover how to create a sanctuary for hummingbirds using perennial and annual plants, wildflowers, shrubs, trees and hummingbird feeders. Topics will include identification of the Ruby-throated hummingbird, ideal habitat, migration, nesting, feeding, the importance of water features and the best hummingbird feeders and plants.
Following the keynote, there will be two breakout sessions, each offering a variety of garden-related classes.
Sessions will cover a variety of gardening topics
Session one classes include Salvias: Hidden Treasures for your Pollinator Garden, Growing Forward: What’s New for 2026 and Seed Starting for Success: Pocket-Friendly and Eco-Smart Methods…