If you are a new gardener or new to gardening in Central Texas, and if you are looking for a holistic introduction to organic food growing, then this Sustainable Food Center class is just for you. Taught by expert food gardeners, this 3-part series combines hands-on activities and classroom discussion to provide participants with the knowledge and skills needed to start and maintain an organic and sustainable food garden. Whether you hope to garden in a yard, on a balcony, or at a community garden, this class series will give you a strong foundation for growing your own food.
Class 1: On day one, participants learn what it means to garden organically. You also learn about the sunlight and soil needs of vegetable gardens, and you work together to weed, amend and plant one of the beds in SFC’s Teaching Garden.
Class 2: On day two, participants learn all about watering, from the basics of watering seeds and transplants to water conservation. Participants also develop their observation skills by taking a guided tour through the Teaching Garden and the adjacent community garden.
Class 3: Day three is devoted to composting and to organic pest and disease management. We begin with a bug hunt then continue with a discussion of environmentally-friendly ways to control pests and diseases. During the second part of class, participants enjoy a hands-on lesson in building and tending compost systems.
Participants also take home a 45-page manual produced by SFC and designed specifically for Central Texas food growers. You can purchase tickets here.