Events

PRESERVING YOUR ANNUAL HERBAL HARVEST
Saturday, September 14, 2019
10:00 am- 12:00 pm

Presented by Debbie Boutelier

You spent the entire spring and summer growing and consuming fresh, wonderful, edible herbs. Now what? Join us as we explore the ways to preserve our herbal harvest to enjoy throughout the year. We will learn several different methods to save the wonderful flavors of summer, including dehydrating, freezing, tea blends, herbal sweeteners and herbal mixes. Winter cooking and baking can still be delicious and enjoyable! This is event is 2 hours and attendees are encouraged to bring a notebook and writing utensil. Ticket price includes event, garden admission, a handout with instructions and recipes, and tastes of several wonderful herbal treats!

A life-long lover of all aspects of gardening and nature, Debbie Boutelier’s interest in herbs and other edibles began in the early 80’s when she planted her first edible garden with vegetables and culinary herbs. Her interest rapidly grew into a vocation spanning the many different aspects of using herbs in everyday life and incorporating organic techniques in everything she grows. As an Air Force wife, she has lived in different areas of the country and broadened her gardening knowledge with each new assignment. Upon moving to Alabama in 1994, Debbie pursued her interest in herbs and gardening on a full-time basis, taking the Alabama Master Gardener course in 1995. She has given over 9,000 hours of volunteer service to the Master Gardener program and received the Advanced Master Gardener designation in 2018. Her involvement with the Master Gardener program led her into a new career as a County Extension Agent in Autauga County for 8 years. Debbie now teaches nationally and presents seminars and workshops on the many aspects of herbs, organic gardening, nutrition, and other garden related topics. She has studied the medicinal uses of herbs for over 15 years and completed a three year intensive study of the medicinal aspect of herbs at the Appalachian Center of Natural Health. Debbie is a long-time member and past president of the Herb Society of America. She has appeared on “The Time of Your Life” (local NBC affiliate) and on Troy Public Radio.