The E.A.R.T.H. Center is the headquarters for the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Middlesex County; the outreach wing of Rutgers University. In addition to hosting a variety of 4-H youth development and Master Gardener programs, the E.A.R.T.H. Center hosts regular tours and programs for youth and adults on a variety of topics relating to the Environment, Agriculture, Research, Teaching and Health. Visit their information table for more information about programs relating to local agriculture, basics of horticulture, pest management, earth-friendly gardening techniques and many topics that are the focus of the Extension Agriculture and Natural Resource Management Division.

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4-H is the largest youth development organization in the United States, focusing on head, heart, hands, and health. This organization helps young people learn leadership, science, agriculture, and life skills through hands-on projects and clubs. Visit the 4-H exhibit to meet & interact with a variety of animals, participate in hands-on activities like crafts and bracelet-making, and discover the many opportunities and programs that Middlesex County 4-H has to offer

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The Rutgers University Master Gardeners of Middlesex County are community volunteers trained by Rutgers University experts in sustainable gardening and environmental principles including sound gardening techniques (e.g. plant selection; disease, insect and weed control), integrated pest management, composting and creative methods to conserve natural resources. The Master Gardeners volunteers assist the Rutgers Cooperative Extension staff with the maintenance of all E.A.R.T.H. Center gardens at Davidon’s Mill Pond Park. Visit their Q&A table for more information about how to get involved with their program!

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Learn planting techniques to make the most of limited space, and join the bee pollination activity, gardening quiz show, and “Name the Scarecrow” contest.

Step into the magical world of butterflies and tour the habitat that supports native New Jersey butterflies while learning how to support pollinators in your own home landscape.

Make a beautiful bookmark by pounding fresh flowers onto watercolor paper and watching their colors emerge. This hands-on activity is perfect for nature lovers, readers, artists, and explorers of all ages. Then stroll through the whimsical Children’s Garden, where nature, creativity, and a touch of magic come together.

Tour the 13 raised beds and learn about the culinary and cultural uses of these herbs from the current Master Gardener volunteer training class.

View common compost bins designed for home gardeners and learn tips for improving garden soil.

Learn how flowers support pollination, then pick up a flower sachet made from plants grown in the Cutting Garden.

Pick up the scavenger hunt form at the Rutgers Cooperative Extension information table and visit each garden to search for the resident gnome. Once you find the gnome, show a volunteer to receive a stamp. Once completed, hand in your form to receive a prize!

Tour the fruit garden to see fruits that can be grown in New Jersey, join a fruit treasure hunt, and play the strawberry toss game.

Looking for a quiet break from all the festival hubbub? Walk or hop on the festival tractor to the Garden of Memories to experience a grounded moment and reconnect with nature.

Bring your finest garden produce specimens to display at the festival! Outstanding submissions receive a gift certificate for the Rutgers Day Plant Sale. Our Master Gardeners will share their home gardening experiences and growing methods. Submissions will be accepted between 11:00AM and 2:00PM with judging occurring at 3:00PM.

Need advice about your home garden? Stop by this table to get your questions answered and general advice from the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Middlesex County along with information about volunteering with their program.

Stop by and cool off in the shade of the Native Garden & Trail while exploring native plants that can be grown in your home garden or yard.

Learn why native plants matter and how they can enhance your garden. Test your knowledge with our “Which One Is a Native Plant?” game, learn about our plant donation program for public organizations, pot up a plant to take home, create a kids craft, and tour our garden beds and nursery.

Kids and adults alike are invited to decorate a pot to take home and learn how to plant seasonal annual flowers.

Rows for the Hungry is a two-acre donation garden which grows fresh, first quality produce directly for the food insecure of Middlesex County. Visit the donation garden to taste fresh Jersey tomatoes, take photos with the giant dancing tomato and play harvest games for prizes!

Experience vegetable tastings and harvest demonstrations throughout the day including a showcase of best gardening practices and new plant varieties.

This center was founded with a dual mission: conducting research on insects that transmit disease agents such as mosquitoes, and using these findings to enhance the quality of life for residents in New Jersey. Researchers at the CVB delve into pest and pathogen biology, ecology, evolution, and management.

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