Planting beans and garlic with Emily Makrez

TOWNSEND — While we still have a few more weeks of winter here in New England, it’s not too early to start thinking about spring gardens.

The Townsend Public Library will help gardeners get a head start with the program titled “Growing Beans & Garlic” at 6 p.m.on  Wednesday, Feb. 25, at the library, at 12 Dudley Road.

This informative program, hosted by Emily Makrez of F-Word Farm (Farming, Foraging, Fermenting), will walk participants through the essentials of growing two of her garden favorites.

“This class is all about my obsession with beans — how beautiful they are, how to grow them, why they are good for us and the soil, and ways to use them,” said Makrez.” I will also teach another favorite of mine to grow — garlic.”

“Growing Beans & Garlic” will cover what to think about when selecting seeds, when to plant and how to use your harvest.

Participants will learn which bean varieties thrive in local conditions and how to plant, harvest and store garlic for year-round use. The program is designed to be practical and beginner-friendly, offering tips that can be used in backyard gardens or small growing spaces.

Makrez, owner of F-Word Farm, is an educator on all things fermenting, farming, and foraging related.

“F-Word Farm was started out of a love for the environment,” Makrez said. “It is an Earth centered farm that practices organic, no-till farming focused on building eco-systems and soil.”

The event is free and open to the public, though registration is required. For more information, or to register, visit the Townsend Public Library’s website at townsendlibrary.org or call 978-549-7379. For more information on Emily Makrez and F-Word Farm, visit fwordfarm.com.