A wonderful opportunity for those in growing zone 4 to learn from a Mississippi Mills/Lanark County organic farmer. This workshop was inspired around the philosophy that everyone has the opportunity to learn how to grow their own food. Gardens help build beautiful sustainable, healthy human based communities.

Following the scheme of “7 simple steps to start a garden”:

1. Soil-Growing in containers vs. raised beds vs. soil. How to get started with each (inputs, methods). Soil health as foundation: topsoil vs. compost, no-dig techniques
2. Light (Light needs of different plants)
3. Water (how much, how often, what to look for)
4. Fertility
5. Pest management
6. Weed management
7. What, when and how to plant Easy vs. tricky plants. Seeding vs. transplanting. Planting calendar. Intro to companion planting.

Our Facilitator: Alberto Suarez Esteban grew up helping his grandparents in their gardens and farms in NW Spain. His passion for Nature led him to a PhD in Ecology. He has raised both plants and animals in many climates, from Spain to the Yukon. In 2019 he founded Nature's Apprentice Farm in Pakenham where he uses regenerative techniques to grow vegetables, eggs and flowers for our community. Alberto loves learning and inspiring other people. He teaches biology courses at Carleton University and regularly shares his farming experiences in workshops, talks and farm tours.

Each guest will receive a copy of the PowerPoint presentation with space for notes and a recording of the workshop.