Prepping a healthy garden begins in the fall. In this class, we will be exploring several distinct practices that are best done during this season.

Beginning with very easy vertical gardens that Ben originally patented to use in informal settlements and refugee camps, we will explore the many styles and potential applications for vertical gardens in our own lives. Urban areas, lands with contaminated soils, and even schools and community centers with asphalt surfaces are ideal for these gardens. In addition, populations that can't do the back-breaking work of in-ground growing and others who just want a fun new way to grow a vegetable garden will love these techniques. In addition to vertical gardening, we'll be exploring a number of other approaches that are best started in fall, including sheet mulching, lasagna gardening, and a few other amazing methods. We'll also be discussing the principles behind various mulching practices and which ones most effectively support healthy plant growth and build healthier soils.

There are many different approaches to and philosophies surrounding mulching. At the REED Center, we favor those that simulate Nature's own mulching processes, observed in healthy landscapes, while minimizing extra work for the people involved.

The format of this class includes some classroom time interspersed with time in nature and hands-on activities. Taking this class will support you to get a better sense of when, how, and with what materials to build and preserve moisture in your soils, keep heat out, suppress weed growth, and make soil microorganisms happy, all through mulching. Please bring your own lunch and water, a notebook, something to write with, warm layers, and durable shoes or boots. We will be providing light snacks, coffee, and tea.

This class counts toward the permaculture design certification, if you have signed up to take the PDC.

There are 4 PDC credit hours given for attending this class.

All classes are offered on a sliding scale pricing model; please pay at the rate that is within the means of your lived reality. If you are financially comfortable, we invite you to pay at the higher rate to support our efforts growing this vision. If you are coming from experience with structural marginalization or other economically-challenging circumstances, we invite you to pay at the lowest end of the sliding scale or to reach out to inquire about work trade opportunities.

Questions about the event? Contact Toni at toni@thereedcenter.org to get in touch.