Allerton Park & Retreat Center

Experience Level: Beginner

Learn how to grow herbs in the Central Illinois climate, pot herbs in a container, and then taste how they are used in a meal at Cooking with Herbs on Saturday, Sept 12 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m in the Herb Garden and Evergreen Lodge.

Join Kay Karnes and Piatt County Master Gardeners in the Herb Garden to begin this workshop, where you will receive a tour of the garden, which is certified by the Illinois Herb Association.

Then, adjourn to the classroom in Evergreen Lodge to learn how to grow herbs and plant a container of herbs that do well in Central Illinois.  Finally, a buffet lunch prepared by Leah Bodine of the Greenhouse Cafè will be provided along with cooking tips to use herbs and spices in various recipes.

$50/person.Registration closes Sept. 5 or when capacity is reached. All sales are final.

Learn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations to participate, please email owarren@illinois.edu.

By attending, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.

About the instructor:

Illinois Extension Piatt County Master Gardener Volunteers are a dedicated group of trained community volunteers who combine a passion for gardening with a commitment to public service. Through the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener program, volunteers receive research-based horticultural training and use that knowledge to educate, inspire, and support residents across Piatt County. Piatt County Master Gardeners support two educational gardens at Allerton Park, the Herb Garden, located next to the mansion, and the Welcome Garden, located between the visitors center and café.

Kay Carnes’ love of gardening began at an early age, “helping” her father in his vegetable garden and has continued throughout her life.  She has been a Master Gardener, a member and past president of the Illinois Herb Association, and a panelist on MidAmerican Gardener since 1995.  Kay and her husband Dave live on 2.5 acres outside of Monticello, a property that allows her ample space to pursue her passion.  Her areas of expertise are herbs, vegetables, and seed saving.

About The Farms

The Farms: An Allerton Folk School, offers classes, workshops, and gatherings focusing on art, outdoor education, science, storytelling, and wellness. All experiences value hands-on, experiential teaching and learning, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.