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COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- It's almost time to think about spring planting, but the City of Columbia wants local green thumbs to enjoy year-round gardening success.

The Columbia parks department on Saturday is offering a free workshop at the Hyatt Park Community Garden. Ed Brogdon of Back-To-Eden will be on hand to help teach participants ways to grow healthy fruits and vegetables and plant beautiful flowers.

The workshop is part of the parks department's initiative to promote community gardens as a way to foster environmental awareness and sustainable living.

There are currently 20 community gardens around Columbia.