Tackling Summer Garden Pests & Diseases with the Knox County Master Gardeners
On July 12, 2025, the Alliance partnered with the Knox County Master Gardeners to host an informative and hands-on class all about diseases and pests in summer vegetable gardens. The free workshop at Payne Avenue Missionary Baptist Church drew both new and seasoned gardeners eager to learn how to protect their plants in the height of the growing season.
Learning from Local Experts
Master Gardeners, trained volunteers dedicated to public horticultural education, led the session. Their expertise helped gardeners identify common garden enemies —everything from leaf spots and wilts to insects like aphids and beetles — and offered practical advice for managing them in the backyard or community plots.
Participants learned:
- how to recognize early signs of disease and insect damage
- best practices for organic and cultural pest management
- ways to keep plants healthy through proper watering, spacing, and soil care
These fundamentals help gardens not just survive summer stress, but thrive throughout the season.
Hands-On and Community Focused
Beyond the classroom portion, attendees had time to ask questions, view examples of plant issues up close in the adjacent Pastor Richard S. Brown Jr. Community Garden, and hear firsthand from Master Gardeners about what they have seen work in local gardens. The collaborative energy reflected the shared mission of both organizations to educate, empower, and support gardeners across Knox County.
Growing Knowledge for Our Local Food System
Partnerships like this one strengthen community gardening in Knox County by connecting residents with trusted resources and practices that improve yields and resilience. As we navigate long growing seasons, hot weather, and ever-changing garden challenges, having access to research-based guidance and peer support is more valuable than ever.
We extend a big thank-you to the Knox County Master Gardeners for sharing their time and knowledge — and to all who came out to grow smarter together!
