The Veggie Course

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