MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Some are spooky, some are funny, some are just strange, and they're all waiting to greet visitors to the Scarecrow Trail at the Northeast Mississippi Research and Extension Center in Verona.

The Scarecrow Trail opened to the public Sept. 25 and will remain open through Oct. 25. The trail winds though gardens filled with flowers and landscape plants.

"This is the second year for the Scarecrow Trail and the 75 scarecrows along the trail are almost double the number we had last year," said Alice Nunnelley, project chair of the North Mississippi Extension Horticulture Center Master Gardeners. "The trail is a way to introduce youth to the 4-H Junior Master Gardener program and to show them ways gardening can be fun."

The scarecrows were made for a competition sponsored by the Master Gardeners and the Tupelo Visitors and Convention Bureau. The creations range from a patriotic red, white and blue-clad Uncle Sam to a jump-suited Elvis to an assortment of space creatures.

"Many of the scarecrows were made by area elementary and middle school classes," said Extension Master Gardener state coordinator Lelia Kelly. "We also have a group made from flower pots and other recycled materials by the Junior Master Gardeners."

Creations by businesses, individuals and civic organizations also are among the scarecrows strategically placed throughout the center's gardens.

Admission is free and families or individuals who want to enjoy the gardens and exhibits may walk the trail anytime Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Guided group tours are available. Make reservations by calling Sharon McKissick of the Tupelo Convention and Visitors Bureau at (662) 841-6521 or (800) 533-0611.

For more information on the 4-H Junior Master Gardener program, visit Extension.msstate.edu or contact a county Extension agent.