Introduction to Biointensive Growing - 3day workshop

Tutor: Nathan Foote, Kay Baxter
Location: Gisborne

A Koanga Institute Workshop.

The Biointensive method has been developed to maximise yield from minimal space. It is the most efficient way to grow vegetables, and the results are amazing. We use these methods at Koanga, and encourage others to do the same. You'll leave this course with some real skills that you can use to get your garden really pumping!

The Biointensive method incorporates the principles of organic, biodynamic and biological agricultural practices, and gives them a structure so that the home garden can be managed for maximum efficiency and yeild. Based on traditional gardening practices, and developed with scientific trials by John Jeavons and the Ecology Action team - following these methods you're guaranteed to get great results. Biointensive Growing is a system that has been developed by John Jeavons after over 30 years of studying the ancient agriculture systems that actually grew soil, and great civilizations. 
He has used that knowledge together with his own extensive research to put together the Biointensive system, which is about growing the most amount of food in the smallest area for the least amount of energy used (and water), in a way that every body can do.

This is a 3 day workshop covering the basic level theory and practice of Bio-intensive gardening, and an introduction to Growing Nutrient Dense Food. The workshop will cover the Digging techniques used to get the soil aerated and ready for planting, Biointensive compost techniques; Close plant spacing, Companion Planting, Carbon Farming (for sustainable soil management), Open Pollinated Heritage Seeds, and How to Grow Nutrient Dense Food in your home garden. You'll go home after this weekend with practical skills to put into action, with a process to follow for great results. Both Kay and Nathan are excellent teachers, with years of experience to provide practical solutions for the home gardener.

The workshop is about 50 / 50, theory & practice. This will suit those that prefer a more hands on approach to learning. This is a great opportunity to work with Nathan Foot and Kay Baxter - both experts in their field and great teachers.

Growing Nutrient Dense Food - Kay Baxter will explain the importance of getting the soil right, to produce healthy, nutrient dense food. We'll look at practical ways to get the right minerals into the soil, in the right relationships, with the right microbiology for optimum plant (and human health). Kay's focus is on practical methods for home gardeners to understand and improve the quality of their home grown produce.

All meals will be prepared using the principles of Weston A Price, using local organic produce.
 
Students can be accommodated on location (marae style) or may make their own arrangements in nearby Gisborne. The course fee includes lunch and dinner Friday and Saturday, and lunch Sunday. If students wish to stay on site, a small extra fee of $30, which will include breakfasts on Saturday and Sunday.

$415 including lunches and dinners. To book: www.koanga.org.nz / ph: 06 9280581