GreenSky Gives

04/30/2026

🌱It’s not too late to start planting⬇️

Have you planted your garden yet? Whether you have or haven't, we encourage you to plant a little extra and participate in the Grow More Give More 250lb. Challenge. As part of Auburn University's 250 celebration of America, Alabama Extension's goal is 250 pounds of fresh produce donated in each county between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Food insecurity remains a serious issues across Alabama, affecting approximately 2 million residents, including 1 in 4 children. Will you be part of the challenge and make a difference in your community? Every pound counts.

Learn more about the challenge and how you can get involved here: https://www.aces.edu/go/6066

04/29/2026

We are back with some Wednesday Wisdom🌱⬇️
We are halfway through the week and one day closer to weekend markets.

Support your local farmers and producers and keep an eye out for May seasonal crops🍓

04/29/2026

If you are looking to plant flowers and shrubs that are feed pollinators, check out our Pollinator Plant of the Month!

Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) is a native bee balm with lavender-pink summer blooms that attract a wide range of pollinators, while its hollow stems provide important winter nesting habitat.

Learn more about pollinator plants here: https://www.aces.edu/go/6192

04/29/2026

04/22/2026

Happy Earth Day 🌎🌱🪴

Earth Day is a reminder that caring for our environment starts with everyday actions.

By protecting our natural resources, promoting sustainability, and making informed choices, we can all help create a healthier future for our communities.

Through Alabama Extension, you can find research-based programs and resources that support these efforts. Here are just a few ways to get involved:
Master Gardener Program
Grow More, Give More 250 Pound Challenge
Food Preservation Classes
Alabama Master Naturalist Program

Whether you're planting a garden, reducing food waste, or learning about local ecosystems, Alabama Extension is here to help you take the next step.

Find more resources and programs at www.aces.edu.

04/13/2026

Extension Week Webinar Series kicks off tomorrow! Watch from the comfort of your own home.

Join us Monday, April 13 for two informatve webinars designed to help Alabama communities grow and thrive. The webinars tomorrow cover taking your first steps into farmers markets and learning about the power of pollinators.

To register for the webinars, visit www.aces.edu/go/ExtensionWeekWebinars

04/09/2026

April's Grow More, Give More Harvest of the Month is Sweet Peas!
Sweet Peas are easy to grow and are ready to be harvested 60 to 70 days after planting. These tiny vegetables are perfect steamed or mixed in a creamy risotto.

Find growing instructions and delicious recipes at https://www.aces.edu/go/6163

04/08/2026

🌷Our Spring Newsletter is here!🌱
We invite you to take a moment to read, share, and stay connected. Click below to read the latest edition!
Don’t miss what’s growing. Subscribe to get updates to your inbox! https://okw.soundestlink.com/ce/v/0/69d656910cdc908f18efa485

04/08/2026

In case you weren’t aware⬇️📆 one week left!

The deadline to apply for USDA Farm Service Agency's General Conservation Reserve Program is rapidly approaching. Applications must be submitted by April 17! CRP is a voluntary program that encourages agricultural producers and landowners to convert highly erodible and other environmentally sensitive acreage to vegetative cover, such as native grasses, trees, and riparian buffers. In return, participants receive annual rental payments.

04/07/2026

We have officially entered National Garden Month, and it’s time to get busy in your garden and around your home!

Grab your gardening gloves and spades because it’s time to start planting those fresh spring and summer vegetables. And don’t forget the old saying—April showers bring May flowers. Plant now to enjoy beautiful blooms later.

Check out these helpful resources below for full details and planting timelines specific to your region in Alabama:
Planting Guide for Home Gardening in Alabama –www.aces.edu/go/5710
Alabama Gardener’s Calendar – https://www.aces.edu/go/6140

As you begin planting, we also invite you to participate in the Grow More, Give More 250 Challenge. Donate your extra produce to help feed families across Alabama and make a difference in your community.

Have questions? The Extension Master Gardener Helpline is ready to provide research-based advice at (877) 252-4769.

04/07/2026

⬇️Important deadline extension! See link below 🌱📆

‼️PROGRAM EXTENSION‼️

Specialty crop producers can now report 2025 acres and apply for USDA's Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers program through April 24.

Learn more: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/news-events/news/03-31-2026/usda-reopens-acreage-reporting-period-specialty-crop-farmers-impacted

04/03/2026

🌱April🌷 sits in that quiet in-between where the last of winter’s citrus begin to fade, and the sweetness of summer is still on its way. Cooler temperatures still have a say this time of year, so when it dips below 50°F, both plants and pollinators slow down, and those early spring cold snaps can damage blooms. Some fruits take a little longer to arrive, think peaches, berries, and melons.

When you’re browsing your local farmers market this month, lean into what’s ready now and know the best of spring is just getting started💚