KINGSTON, R.I.—July 31, 2007 — Gardeners interested in learning new ways to improve their vegetable gardens are invited to an open house at the University of Rhode Island’s Demonstration Vegetable Garden at East Farm on Saturday, Aug. 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., rain or shine.

The open house, organized by URI Master Gardeners, is designed to show off the 5,000 square-foot demonstration garden during the peak of the growing season to provide gardeners with tips for growing better, healthier produce. Various vegetable gardening activities will be on display throughout the day.

A variety of cooking demonstrations are planned, including one by Chef Normand Leclair, cookbook author and founder of the Red Rooster tavern. In addition, a wide range of activities will be offered including an ‘Ask a Master Gardener’ booth and workshops on irrigation and composting. Visitors are encouraged to bring a cup of soil for a free pH test, and volunteers will be on hand to explain what may be needed to improve it.

The Demonstration Vegetable Garden is located adjacent to the URI Master Gardener Field House at the East Farm Research Facility on Route 108 in Kingston. For more information about the open house, call 800-448-1011 or 401-874-2900.