| These classes teach you all you need to know to start growing your own food! |
| 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 3 times to give you ample opportunity to fit it into your schedule. Choose classes to take, or take the entire course: $30 per class, OR $90 for the entire course. Course purchase includes all 3 classes, Clyde’s Garden Planner, and a binder for all slides, handouts and other information. To register call Martin Garden Center at 864-277-1818. |
Class 1: Setting Goals, Selecting Seeds & Sorting Starter Plants
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 1 is offered on these dates and times:
- Saturday, January 28th, 4-5:30pm
- Wednesday, February 1st, 8-9:30am
- Friday, February 3rd, 11:30am-1pm
Class 2: Soils, Amendments & Fertilizers
In this class we will explore:
- Preparing the perfect spot for your garden
- Soil types
- Components of 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 2 is offered on these dates and times:
- Wednesday, February 8th, 8-9:30am
- Saturday, February 11th, 4-5:30pm
- Friday, February 17th, 11:30am-1pm
Class 3: Maintaining & Harvesting the Garden
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
Class 3 is offered on these dates and times:
- Wednesday, February 15th, 8-9:30am
- Saturday, February 18th, 4-5:30pm
- Friday, February 24th, 11:30am-1pm