La Salle County Jail Inmates Cultivate Skills at Tomato Workshop

In a notable initiative, the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener program hosted a “Tomato Troubles” workshop at the La Salle County Jail this summer. The program, aimed at inmates participating in a drug treatment initiative, provides an opportunity to cultivate new skills while engaging in gardening activities. This project marks the first year of a new garden established at the facility.

The garden, which began this spring, received a boost through donated plants from Bonie Plant Farms in Ottawa. Inmates including Hallan Brady, Derek Hornick, and Jovanny Castaneda actively participated in the planting and maintenance of the garden. Their responsibilities included tying up tomato plants and trimming them to enhance airflow, essential practices for successful gardening.

Jason Edgcomb, the La Salle County Jail Superintendent, emphasized the positive impact of the gardening project. “This project has given our inmates in our drug treatment program another tool during their recovery to experience something they never thought they would do or care about,” he noted. Edgcomb added that the initiative helps inmates appreciate the simple joys of a sober life, as they see their efforts lead to tangible harvests.

The “Tomato Troubles” workshop offered practical advice on how to identify common plant issues and implement effective solutions. Participants received training on essential topics such as soil health, crop rotation, watering techniques, mulching, pruning, staking, and ensuring proper airflow. The interactive nature of the workshop encouraged participants to ask questions and share their observations, reinforcing their learning as they worked in the garden.

Bettyann Harrison, the Master Gardener coordinator, remarked on the program’s success. “Overall, it was a positive and practical program, helping participants strengthen gardening skills and build confidence in caring for their plants. I look forward to seeing how the garden grows in the future,” she stated.

This collaboration between the University of Illinois Extension and La Salle County Jail highlights the potential benefits of vocational training programs in correctional settings. By providing inmates with hands-on learning experiences, the project aims to assist in their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

For those interested in learning more about the Master Gardener program, they can contact the University of Illinois Extension at 309-364-2356 or reach out to Harrison via email at [email protected].