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Mission Statement: At Applegarth Greenhouse, our mission is to cultivate a thriving, hands-on learning environment where individuals deepen their understanding of horticulture, sustainability, and regenerative gardening practices. Through our “Master Gardener” Hands-On Class, we empower participants with the knowledge and skills to grow their own food, nurture ecosystems, and foster biodiversity.

Our community garden serves as a living classroom—where people of all experience levels can connect with nature, share wisdom, and contribute to a healthier planet. We believe in the transformative power of gardening to build stronger communities, enhance well-being, and promote environmental stewardship.

Together, we grow not just plants, but a sustainable future, rooted in education, collaboration, and a shared love for the Earth.

Here is a list of Activities for the Master Gardening Hands-On Class & Community Garden

Foundational Gardening Skills

• • Soil Health & Preparation – Learn how to test, amend, and build healthy soil through composting, cover cropping, and organic matter.
  • Seed Starting & Propagation – Hands-on experience with germination, transplanting, and propagating plants from cuttings.
  • Garden Planning & Crop Rotation – Design efficient garden layouts for seasonal planting and sustainable harvests.
  • Companion Planting & Permaculture Principles – Learn how to plant symbiotic crops for natural pest control and increased yields.
  • Organic Pest & Disease Management – Identify and implement natural solutions to common garden pests and plant diseases.

Advanced Gardening Techniques

• • • Vermiculture (Worm Composting) – Build a worm bin and learn how to use worm castings as a natural fertilizer.
    • Greenhouse & Cold Frame Gardening – Extend the growing season with controlled environments.
    • Mycology & Mushroom Cultivation – Learn how to grow edible mushrooms using logs and indoor grow kits.

Community Garden & Sustainability Practices

• • • Building Raised Beds & Garden Structures – Hands-on workshop constructing raised garden beds, trellises, and compost bins.
    • Rainwater Harvesting & Irrigation Systems – Learn how to collect and efficiently use rainwater in gardening.
    • Pollinator & Wildlife-Friendly Gardening – Create habitats for bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects.
    • Herbal & Medicinal Garden Crafting – Design and plant a garden with herbs for culinary and medicinal uses.
    • Native & Edible Landscaping – Incorporate native plants and perennials into a food-producing landscape.

Harvesting & Preservation

• • • Harvesting & Storing Produce – Best practices for timing, handling, and preserving food for long-term use.
    • Canning, Fermentation & Dehydration – Learn various methods of preserving garden harvests.
    • Seed Saving & Heirloom Conservation – Techniques for collecting, storing, and sharing seeds for future plantings.
    • Herbal Infusions & DIY Remedies – Create herbal teas, salves, and tinctures from garden-grown plants.
    • Cooking from the Garden – Hands-on cooking classes using fresh, homegrown ingredients.

Community & Outreach

• • • Garden-to-Table Events – Host community meals showcasing seasonal produce.
    • Volunteer & Service Projects – Support food security programs by donating harvests to local food banks.
    • Seasonal Festivals & Garden Tours – Celebrate gardening with public events, plant swaps, and educational workshops.
    • Cooperative Farmers Market – A community-driven marketplace where local gardeners and farmers can share their fresh, homegrown produce with the community. Equipped with a walk-in cooler and misting systems, the market ensures optimal freshness and quality, creating a sustainable hub for local food exchange.