The College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources at Kentucky State University hosted a Winter Indoor Growing Workshop Sept. 6 at the University’s West Louisville Extension Office, equipping local growers with tools to extend the season and strengthen community food systems.

The session, led by Alhagie K. Cham, Ph.D., Urban Horticulture Extension/Research Scientist with Kentucky State’s Cooperative Extension Program, engaged 12 participants from across the Louisville metropolitan area. Attendees took part in demonstrations on setting up, operating, and maintaining indoor production systems, along with lessons in crop selection, seasonal planning, and troubleshooting.

“This program helps community growers gain confidence and practical knowledge they can apply immediately in their homes and neighborhoods,” Cham said. “By supporting year-round production, we are improving food security, expanding what’s grown locally, and building stronger networks among city farmers.”

The Winter Indoor Growing session followed the Urban Organic Agriculture Workshop held in August and leads into the Herbs Gardening at Home Workshop scheduled for October 18. Together, these workshops form Kentucky State’s Home Grower Support Program (HGSP), part of the University’s Community Resource Development (CRD) program. The HGSP provides one-on-one consultations, training in soil health and composting, pest and disease management, and support for hydroponics and container gardening.

Participants also benefit from community networking opportunities, free seeds, and refreshments at each event.

The program is free and open to anyone in the community with an interest in home gardening, regardless of experience. To reserve a spot, call (502) 597-6570 or email alhagie.cham@kysu.edu. Events are held at 1300 Muhammad Ali Blvd., Louisville, KY 40203.