NACOGDOCHES, Texas - Now is the time to get a jump start on springtime vegetable gardening and create a garden experience for the whole family to enjoy together.

SFA Gardens will host a beginning gardening class called "Vegetable Gardening 101" for families from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 8, in the new Ina Brundrett Conservation Education Building at the Stephen F. Austin State University Pineywoods Native Plant Center, 2900 Raguet St. SFA Gardens Research Associate Dawn Stover will meet with parents to discuss site selection, soil preparation and amendments, compost, and raised-bed and container options. Research Associate Greg Grant will review planting schedules and best vegetable varieties for East Texas.

While the adults are learning gardening basics, younger family members (children ages 4 and older) will meet with the SFA Nacogdoches Naturally staff to learn about compost, plant parts and seeds through hands-on activities and games. Children will create art to add color to their home gardens. During the second part of the morning, families will come together for a garden taste sampler and plant a seed starter to take home.

Cost for the event, which includes all supplies, will be $20 for SFA Gardens members, $25 for non-members and $40 for family groups. Space in the workshop is limited, so pre-registration is required by Feb. 6.

To register or get more information, call Elyce Rodewald at (936) 468-1832 or email sfagardens@sfasu.edu.