Martin Garden Center

Best Selection Of Plants In The Upstate

The Veggie Course

These Classes Teach You All You Need To Know To Start Growing Your Own Vegetables!

This Course Is Divided Into 3 Classes:

Class 1: Setting Goals, Selecting Seeds & Sorting Starter Plants
Class 2: Soils, Amendments & Fertilizers
Class 3: Maintaining & Harvesting the Garden

Each class will be offered twice each season. Choose classes to take, or take the entire course: $35 per class.

Course purchase includes all 3 classes, Clyde’s Garden Planner, and a binder for all slides, handouts and other information.

Winter/Spring registration begins December 20th. Summer/Fall registration begins June 20th. See dates and times for each class at our Online Store.

Class 1: Setting Goals, Selecting Seeds, & Sorting Starter Plants

Class 1

In this class we will explore:

  • Your “why” for gardening
  • Zones, climates, and growing seasons
  • Basic gardening terminology
  • In-ground vs. raised beds vs. container gardening vs. vertical gardening
  • How to read a seed packet
  • Resources for quality seeds
  • Direct sowing vs. starting seeds inside
  • Plant starts and their benefits
  • Understanding heirloom, organic, hybrid, and open pollinated seeds
  • Starting seeds inside – what do you really need and when to start
  • Common problems when starting seeds
  • How to harden off and transplant properly

Class 2: Soils, Amendments & Fertilizers

Class 2

In this class we will explore:

  • Preparing the perfect spot for your garden
  • Soil types
  • Components of Piedmont Ultisols
  • Ideal soils composition
  • N:P:K and micronutrients
  • Amending soils to meet your goals
  • Nutrient additions for certain plants/crops
  • Nutrient additions using organic and inorganic fertilizers
  • Composting to generate your own nutrients
  • Free sources of nutrients and mulch in the Greenville Area
  • Methods to deter pests using additives
  • Raised beds and in-ground gardening with no-till method

Class 3: Maintaining & Harvesting the Garden

Class 3

In this class we will explore:

  • Common problems in the garden
  • Pest pressure, weeds & disease
  • Pesticide solutions (organic and synthetic)
  • Mulching and watering needs
  • Best tools for the job
  • Proper harvesting time and techniques
  • Proper storage
  • Recipes and how to use your harvest
  • Basic preserving, canning, freezing, and dehydrating
  • Preparing your garden space for the next season
  • Basics of seed saving