21 janvier 2026 mercredi

50 degrees, sunny

12 mph, WSW wind

These long days of January are deceptive in their seemingly quiet intention, continuing the winter tasks of sorting gathered seeds, preparing seed packets, cleaning and sharpening tools, and reviewing and planning the raised bed plantings. But even as these tasks are ongoing, the new year is already buzzing with activity with the preparation for the March 14th, 2026 Fort de Chartres Jardin Potager 9th Annual Heirloom Échange de Graines Potagères (garden seed exchange) and the scheduling of garden presentations and tours of the jardin. Everyone is thanked for their continued interest in the garden at Fort de Chartres.

Additionally in the planning stages, two new projects for 2026: an upcoming early March workshop for l’Alliance Française de Chicago in partnership with the French Heritage Society as part of a month-long celebration, “Festival de la Francophonie” and the advising, assisting, and researching in the creation of new bed plantings at the Jean Bapiste Valle House, a Ste. Geneviève National Historical Park site.

So much to look forward to in 2026, please keep checking in to follow along on the continuing journey of the Fort de Chartres Heritage Garden Project, celebrating our region’s foodway history!