New course

University expert to teach new fruits and vegetables class
By Steve Waller, Public Information Specialist, Central Lakes College
A former University of Minnesota horticulturist will teach the new Fruits and Vegetables course offered at Central Lakes College in Brainerd when the spring term begins Jan. 10.
Mervin Eisel has written numerous reference guides for growers of woody plants, garden perennials and other horticultural topics. The associate professor emeritus has taught course for the university through its St. Paul campus and also at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.
He officially retired in 1992 but Eisel said he is “still working as hard as ever, once an educator always an educator.” He was with the university 34 years and, in retirement, has enjoyed 19 giving advice whenever asked.
“I give out a lot of information when I participate in farmer’s markets,” he said from his home south of Brainerd. “In my career I’ve talked to groups at all levels, from youths to amateur horticulturists to Master Gardeners.”
Growing vegetables for as long as he can remember, Eisel uses whatever means available to teach the curious what to grow and how. “For a while I was on TV more than I ever watched it,” he said, recalling career moments.
His live audiences have ranged from a handful of hosta enthusiasts to 900 people learning about ornamental horticulture.
His landscape favorites at home include azaleas, magnolias, hostas, and yellow peonies. “I think I have 150 azaleas, some as tall as eight feet, in the yard,” he said.
The three-credit CLC class is focused on helping individuals learn to grow quality produce for a family, and Eisel said he will touch on the nutritional value of various vegetables. “There are principles that apply to whatever you grow,” he noted. “Organic matter, fertilizer, soil types, starting seeds, watering -- these are the same factors in all field of horticulture.”
Garden site selection is important, he said. Pruning is a consideration. He will revisit some of the subjects of his publication projects. Two of those are “The Right Tree Handbook” (1991) and “Trees, Shrubs, and Vines for Minnesota Landscapes” (1997).
Eisel will tap his knowledge as a member of the American Hosta Society and the Minnesota Herb Society to educate students in the three-credit CLC class, which is capped at 30 participants.
“I am willing to learn from the students too,” he said, expecting students in the college’s degree program along with growers from the area who “simply want to grow the best vegetables and herbs they can.”
For details about HORT 1300 - Fruits & Vegetables, the evening class schedule once each week, e-mail Admissions@clcmn.edu or call the college Admissions office (218) 855-8037 (toll-free 800-933-0346, ext. 8037).
New students can learn more at http://www.clcmn.edu/new/enrolling/