Summer hanging baskets and containers

KC = King Charles Centre and NK = North Kingston Centre.

Student & Entry Requirements:

None required.

General & First Session:

The learner will need no materials – although knowledge/details of their own garden (size, soil type, aspect – etc) is always helpful.

Course Aim & Objective:

To introduce the learners to the possibilities open to those with access to a garden.

KC 14th May - Summer hanging baskets and containers

This is always a popular subject as everyone loves the colourful display bedding plants have to offer. Some plants can be purchased on the day but please bring your own if desired as well as a suitable container and compost. Some theory but mainly a practical workshop.

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NK 9th October 10 - How to create and maintain a beautiful lawn

Creating a lawn from seed or turf. How to renovate a tired lawn and keep it looking good with regular maintenance and care. Theory and some practical on the lawn at NK!

NK 6th November 10 - Pruning for beginners

Take the mystery out of pruning. Wisteria, roses, fruit bushes and many other shrubs need regular pruning at this time of the year. All your questions answered and a visit to St Michael's Convent, Ham in the afternoon to put what you have learnt into practise!

KC 20th November 10 - Garden design for beginners

How to measure your garden, draw a basic plan and an introduction to plant selection. You will need to bring a soil sample with you and a pH testing kit as well as photos of your garden. We will practise at KC so you can transfer your knowledge to the garden at home.

NK 29th January 11 - Identify the plants in your garden

Here is an opportunity for you to bring in pieces of plants from your garden and find out what they are and how to look after them. We will look at naming them correctly and why this is so important. Winter interest will be particularly relevant at this time of the year.

KC 5th Feb 11 -Propagation from cuttings and division

Bring in some plants from your garden and learn how to propagate them. Some plant material will be supplied for you to work with. At this time of the year many plants can be propagated in this way and it's a cheap and simple way to make new plants.

NK 5th March 11 -Vegetable growing for beginners

Have you been thinking about growing your own vegetables but don't know where to start? This day will look at planning your vegetable garden what to grow where and which ones to avoid and why. If anyone has an allotment or vegetable plot there will be an opportunity to visit it in the afternoon.

KC 12th March 11 - Propagation from seed

This time of the year many plants can be sown inside and out for a riot of colour later on in the year. Learn how to sow seeds correctly. Please bring in any you have, together with small pots, trays and compost. There will be many seeds supplied for your use too.

NK 7th May - Designing a bed or border

Planning an area for planting often avoids disastrous mistakes. You will learn how to choose a range of plants for different situations. Please bring with you photographs and ideas from your own garden. One lucky person could have the group visit their garden in the afternoon or we could study the garden at NK!

KC 14th May - Summer hanging baskets and containers

This is always a popular subject as everyone loves the colourful display bedding plants have to offer. Some plants can be purchased on the day but please bring your own if desired as well as a suitable container and compost. Some theory but mainly a practical workshop.

Assessment:

No formal assessment. Tutor Visual, verbal feedback offered.

Progression:

Progression on to longer introductory courses, C & G complete gardener course and RHC General Garening Certificate.