The Nebraska Extension Special Garden Project lets 4-H members try their hand at growing a new or unusual vegetable or flower each year. The project allows experienced 4-H gardeners to grow something fun and exciting while letting those who are newer to gardening get their feet wet in the horticulture project area with a guided project experience.
This project is open to all youth of 4-H age and gives them the opportunity to learn about growing, harvesting, and exhibiting a vegetable or flower; obtain the tools necessary to be successful gardeners, and learn about the wide range of plant-science related careers.
The 2023 Project is Mrs Burns' Lemon Basil!
This herb can be used multiple ways. Lemon basil has a unique lemon flavor can be added to any recipe or to cut flower arrangements to add scent and interest.
To Get Started:
- Enroll for the "PS: Horticulture (D) - Special Garden Project" through 4-H Online.
- Email dodge-county@unl.edu and let us know how many seed packets you need. If you do not contact us, seeds might not be available for you.
- Pick seeds up from the Dodge County Extension office when we let you know the seeds are available - which should be around March or April.
4-H members enrolled in the Special Garden Project will:
- Receive a packet of seeds (one packet per youth)
- Receive a newsletter with planting & growing tips, information about common problems & insects, and instructions for harvesting and use of the plant
- Be able to exhibit at County and State Fair
- State Fair Special Garden Project Educational Exhibit Class G-775-001
- State Fair Special Garden Project Fresh Cut Flowers or Harvested Vegetables G-775-002
- Other fun county only ways to exhibit include a story, poem, or poster. Check your fairbook for more information.
Complete an evaluation of your growing experience: Special Garden Project Survey
Find out more at 4h.unl.edu/special-garden-project