The Farmingdale State Horticultural Committee is putting together their First Garden Festival scheduled for June 10 -11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event is free and takes place on the garden's four lush acres at the Farmingdale State University Campus.

Horticulture is basically defined as the art of cultivating fruits, vegetables, flowers or plants, which, at this time of year, is something most homeowners are accustomed to.

"People are just now starting to plant this time of year which makes this a great time for this event," says Maria Cincue, chairperson of the Horticultural Committee.

The festival will provide information on different methods of planting whether you are an experienced or novice gardener. Other events include a plant sale, lectures by many noted horticulturalists, crafts fair and regular tours through the famous Rose Garden, Ghost Garden and Tropical Garden. Problem solving tips and soil pH testing will also be available.

Over 5,000 people are expected over the two-day event, as well as live music, and an appearance by KJOY 98.3FM. There also will be gourmet foods available at the garden bistro.

The weekend will culminate with a traditional Garden Party from 3 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, June 11. Although this is the festival's inaugural year, the Garden Party has been around for many years, honoring members of the horticultural community.

Cincue is very proud of the progress of this party over the years.

"About 15 years ago the horticultural program was about to be cut by the school, but our committee stepped up and wouldn't take no for an answer. So, the garden party started to raise funds for the program to help keep it up."

The Ram's Horn Award will be given during the party and according to Farmingdale State University President Jonathan C. Gibralter, it "is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon an individual by the Farmingdale State College Foundation."

Dr. Richard Iversen, curator of the gardens since 1981, has a vast knowledge of its extensive history.

"We have plants here that are over a century old that will be pointed out on the tour at the festival. The Herb Garden and Beech Hedge Garden were also used in the 1939-1940 World's Fair."

Since 1995 the Farmingdale Horticulture Committee has worked closely with the billion dollar horticulture industry to help provide scholarships, build laboratories and provide internships for students. The gardens at the university have developed since the 1930s through the work of both faculty and students of the university.

For more information on the event, visit Farmingdale State University's website at www.farmingdale.edu and click on the Garden Festival 2006 link, or call 631-420-2075 for general inquiries.