The garlic growing class I took in the fall taught me how to protect garlic as it grows in the winter. The bulbs are covered with pine needles and burlap.
Photo credit: Fenella Pearson, ASID

Each week in this section you can find a new article about things to keep you busy in and near your garden -- in every season.

Week 6: One of the things I love about gardening is that there's always something to discover. Taking a gardening class is an easy way to find new inspiration. Some classes are lectures and others are hands-on. Find out before you go so that you can dress appropriately.

Last year, I learned how to test and amend my soil. I'm looking forward to seeing if my plants notice the difference this year. I also took a class on growing garlic from seed, so I'll be experimenting with different techniques in my garlic patch.

If you want to take a class, here are some places that offer a variety of courses for gardeners. Space is often limited, so sign up soon.

• Check the local school district's continuing education department.

• Westchester Community College in Valhalla, N.Y. offers lectures at the Native Plant Center.

• The Cornell University Cooperative Extension offers several classes and has demonstration gardens at Hart's Brook Park and Preserve in Hartsdale, N.Y. The Master Gardener program is taught every two years.

• Nick Mancini, teaches organic vegetable gardening at his own workshop as well as at Norwalk Community College in Norwalk, Conn. and in the Westport and Fairfield, Conn. schools.

• At The New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx you can listen to a lecture, take a class or become a landscape designer.

• Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens in Stamford, Conn. has several lectures on gardening topics. The University of Connecticut Master Gardener program is taught here.

• Check your local nursery for gardening classes.