Get Ready To Garden: New Lawn Fertilizer Law, "Sprouts" Garden Programs, More

Despite the snowy view outside your window, the spring planting season is almost here. If you and your family would like to learn more about gardening, here are five things you need to know about:

1. You Need To Know About The 2011 New Jersey Fertilizer Law:  There's a new law on the books that is intended to control fertilizer runoff from lawns. According to the County Extension in Morris Township, "If you have a lawn anywhere in NJ and fertilize it, this law affects you." Learn more about it here.
2. You Need To Know About Ground Covers: Friday, March 25 is the last day to register for "Beyond Pachysandra," a presentation on ground cover plants scheduled for Friday, April 8 from 7–8:30 p.m at the  Rick Ray, an expert in plant uses, will show you how ground cover plants prevent erosion, protect soil and fill in tough spots in the garden. Cost is $20 for members and $25 for non-members.
3. You Need To Know Where To Get Gardening Advice: Have a pesky gardening problem? On March 26, master gardeners from the Rutgers Extension Service will be at the county library from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to answer your questions.
4. You Need To Know How To Choose A Tree: When you plant a tree on your property, you'll be living with it for a long time. Learn how to "Choose the Right Tree for your Landscape," on March 26 from 1–3 p.m at the . Cost is $10 for members and $15 for non-members.
5. You Need To Know About Garden Sprouts: The has a series of programs designed for preschoolers. Topics range from "How Does a Plant Begin?" on April 4 to "Finding a Rainbow" on June 6.