Sustainable Horticultural Practices

Friday, June 16, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., online
Saturday, June 24, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Bosarge Family Education Center

Ecosystem balance, soil, and water quality are all influenced by our landscape practices. This extensive, two-day sustainable horticulture class will help students apply the principles of ecologically safe gardening practices to their garden or landscape. We’ll examine composting, techniques for eco-friendly soil amendments, pesticide and herbicide alternatives, responsible native plant acquisition, erosion control methods, plant forms for function, and so much more. The class begins with an online lecture and virtual slideshow presentation, including an extensive overview of horticulture terminology, practices, and visual examples. An in-person workshop and field-study session follows, further examining concepts, plants, materials, and practices seen at the Gardens.

Irene Brady Barber is motivated by and deeply focused on connecting people to plants. A horticulturist, landscape designer, and Registered Horticultural Therapist, Irene manages the Adult Education Program and the Horticultural Therapy Program for Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. Upon completing degrees in human behavior and plant and soil sciences, in 2007 Irene began Greenscapes Design, LLC, designing landscapes professionally for clients. A lifetime student, Irene appreciates learning from people, nature, and the endless discoveries offered by research.