Paws & plants: Pest-sniffing dogs, gardening clinics at UH event

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From highly trained conservation dogs sniffing out invasive pests to workshops on spring planting, the community can discover the latest in local, sustainable gardening at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa's "Second Saturday at the Garden " event on February 14, at the Urban Garden Center in Pearl City.

This family-friendly event, organized by the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience (CTAHR), offers free garden exhibits, workshops and expert advice to help residents jump start their home gardens and learn about how to stop the spread of Little Fire Ants on Oʻahu.

Event highlights

• Guests can pick up seeds, learn plant growing techniques and receive a free plant (while supplies last).
• Conservation Dogs of Hawaiʻi: Watch a live demonstration of trained dogs searching for invasive pests. The Oʻahu Invasive Species Committee will be on hand to teach attendees how to screen their own plants for these pests.
• Learn how to grow turmeric with professional tips and research updates from the Hawaiʻi Agriculture Research Center.
• Explore the Waterwise Home Idea Garden and learn about xeric (reduced irrigation) landscaping. Succulent plants and dish gardens will be available for purchase.
• Oʻahu Master Gardeners will be available throughout the morning to answer gardening questions. CTAHR seed packets will also be available for sale.

There will also be a host of workshops on tree grafting, bee-friendly flowers, learn to worm and more.

Interested? Register online.

Attendee information

• Admission to the garden exhibits is free; there may be a small fee for some activities to pay for materials.
• All guests must sign a UH consent waiver at the registration area upon arrival.
• Attendees are encouraged to bring drinking water and sun protection.
• Conservation and guide dogs are the only animals allowed on the premises.