Don't forget you can find a copy of Michael Coulter's Monthly Tips & Tasks here
April
Tuesday 1st 6pm & Wednesday 2nd 1pm
Main Speaker: Astrid Harris
Champion of Healthy Soil
Astrid Harris is a passionate gardener dedicated to cultivating healthy soil and promoting sustainable gardening practices. Using a microscope to analyse soils and composts, she identifies whether the right balance of microbes is present to enable natural nutrient cycling with minimal external inputs. When soi
l microbes are in harmony, nature can thrive on its own.
Astrid combines hands-on experience with a deep understanding of soil ecosystems, regenerative agriculture, and ecosystem restoration. Her work focuses on helping communities nurture the earth to grow vibrant, nutritious plants.
Mini Speaker: Louise Young
Curator, Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Louise's career at the Botanic Gardens started with an apprenticeship in the 1990's. It wasn't until 2000 in partnership with the Friends that she helped develop the Curator's garden. The purpose was to demonstrate how to grow fruit and vegetables in a small area. Louise will share her love of heritage vegetables as well as some more unusual culinary and medicinal plants among other things!
May
Tuesday 6th 6pm & Wednesday 7th 1pm
Main Speaker: Dr. Matthew Cromey
Plant Pathologist
Dr. Matthew Cromey is a Senior Plant Pathologist at the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). He develops strategies to manage diseases affecting ornamental and edible plants, combining RHS research findings with other sources to provide effective advice.
Now living in New Zealand, his work includes diagnosing plant problems, conducting field research, and collaborating with various stakeholders to manage garden diseases. Dr. Cromey has contributed to numerous scientific publications on plant pathology.
Mini Speakers: Mary & Rick
Sogetsu School of Ikebana
The Christchurch branch of the Sogetsu School of Ikebana offers instruction in the modern Japanese art of flower arranging. Certified instructors teach a structured program from the Sogetsu headquarters in Tokyo, focusing on balance, movement, and harmony in floral designs.
The Kiosk, Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Armagh Street car park footbridge
$5 ($10 Non-Members)
Tea, coffee and baking afternoon
Wine & nibbles evening
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