Upcoming program at Berkshire Botanical Garden
STOCKBRIDGE – Berkshire Botanical Garden presents the following upcoming program: Tuesdays, Oct. 29 through Nov. 19, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. “Soil & Soil Amendments.” This is a four-session course offered on Zoom from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. The online class, taught by Monique Bosch, will explain how plant growth is affected by soils, from drainage to pH and nutrients. Learn how to evaluate soils, improve those that are less than ideal and amend soils for specific garden uses. Fertilizers, soil amendments, making and using compost, moisture management, and the pros and cons of mulching will be covered. Students need to get a soil sample before class and bring the results to the first class. Cost $215 members, $240 nonmembers; Thursdays, Oct. 31 through Nov. 21, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. “New England Native Plant Design.” This four-week course, will help students better understand the principles and practices of ecological gardening with a focus on native plant communities. Students will learn the native plant palette, resources needed to identify these communities, and habitats and methods of introducing native plants into gardens. Identifying and controlling invasive plant species, in addition to restoring areas that have been impacted by invasives, will also be highlighted. Gardeners will learn how to enhance garden spaces with native plants that create sustainable and low-maintenance gardens. This course will be taught by Bridghe McCracken of Helia Land Design. Cost $215 members, $240 nonmembers; Saturday, Nov. 2, 10 a.m. to noon, “Sourdough Starter.” There’s so much mysticism on how to make a sourdough starter, but the reality is that it only takes two ingredients and a little patience. This hands-on class, will be led by Brandon Cochran. The class offers a simple and effective approach to making a healthy and active sourdough starter by walking you through each step of the process. Cost $60 members, $80 nonmembers. To register or for more information, visit www.berkshirebotanical.org. Berkshire Botanical Garden is located at 5 West Stockbridge Road.
Wilbraham Garden Club meeting
WILBRAHAM – The second meeting of the Wilbraham Garden Club will be held on Thursday, Nov. 7. at St. Cecilia’s Parish Center on Main Street in Wilbraham at noon. A Pizza Party will be held at no charge. The Wilbraham Garden Club Flower Arrangers Group will be the speakers for the meeting who will make Harvest-Themed Centerpieces.
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