‘Garden to Groceries’ program helps south-central Kentucky residents grow their own food
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Residents across south-central Kentucky have an opportunity to learn how to grow their own food through a free gardening program offered by local extension offices.
Several extension offices throughout the Barren River Area District are hosting Garden to Groceries, a seminar series designed to teach participants how to plant, maintain and harvest their own fruits, vegetables and herbs.
The program aims to help residents develop gardening skills that can provide fresh food for their families while potentially reducing grocery expenses.
The Warren County Cooperative Extension Office is among the participating locations, offering guidance on gardening throughout Kentucky’s changing seasons.
Kristin Hildabrand with the Warren County office said growing your own food is achievable with proper preparation and planning.
“I definitely think that it can be done,” Hildabrand said. “It just needs to start with a good plan involved to kind of take you through the different gardening seasons in Kentucky.”
Hildabrand said home gardening can also create opportunities for families and friends to connect, especially during the holidays.
“It’s a great conversation starter around the holiday table to share even with your neighbors and other friends that you grew it yourself and kind of sharing that experience around the table,” she said.
The program is currently offering free garlic for community members interested in planting their own crops.
The final Garden to Groceries session of 2026 is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 12, at noon, with a focus on growing herbs.
The free seminar series will resume in January, with sessions scheduled on Fridays during lunchtime.
Those unable to attend live sessions can still register through their local extension office’s website and request access to recorded Zoom presentations afterward.
