SIDNEY — The Shelby County Master Gardeners will host a free informative program about Natural and Sustainable Garden Practices Monday evening, June 12, from 7 to 9 p.m.

Lee Ruff, owner of End of the Road Farm, will provide insight into the Certified Naturally Grown (CNG) program. He will share how he and his wife have been able to incorporate the more strict standards required by the CNG program into their small farm. Their farm is very diverse, sustainable and draft-horse powered, specializing in sweet sorghum syrup, 100 percent grass-fed beef, chicken and pork, more than 50 heirloom produce varieties, and whole spelt flour.

With a passion for seed saving, Ruff utilizes companion plantings, cover crops, and a six-year crop rotation. He is expected to relate how these practices might be applied to home gardens.

The program will be held at the Ohio State University Extension meeting room at 810 Fair Road in Sidney. It is open to the public. While there is no charge, seating is limited and advance registration is required by June 7. Register by calling Sonnie Bernardi at 937-510-6182 or email [email protected].

Shelby County Master Gardeners are a group of volunteers trained by Ohio State University Extension to provide such educational services to their communities as: answering gardening questions from the public; conducting plant clinics; gardening activities with children, senior citizens, or disabled persons; beautifying the community; and developing community or demonstration gardens.