Farm & Garden Classes
General Information
Age: Classes are intended for participants 16 years and older unless otherwise noted. (Centennial Farm is open to the public, but we ask that you do not leave your children unattended on the farm.)
Location: Silo Building at Centennial Farm, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626.
Cost: Fees for each class vary and are noted in the class description.
Refund Policy: NO refunds for cancellations made within 48 hours of a class.
October
Make It, Take It – Homemade Tomato Salsa and Kombucha Basics with UCCE Master Food Preservers
Oct. 18
About the Class:
This hands-on class will teach you up-to-date processing recommendations, how to safely preserve your food and the reasons behind each step. You’ll learn about the essential equipment used in food preservation and effective storage practices. Then, you’ll put your skills into practice by making a zesty tomato salsa to take home. You’ll also learn how to make kombucha and receive the supplies, including a SCOBY in starter sweet tea, so you can begin your own batch at home.
When:
Saturday, Oct. 18
Time:
9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
RSVP online by Oct. 10
About the speaker:
Volunteers from the University of California Cooperative Extension Master Food Preservers of Orange County will provide instruction and information. The Master Food Preserver (MFP) program is a public service community outreach initiative providing up-to-date information on food safety and preservation. For information about the MFP program, please visit ucanr.edu/sites/MFPOC/.
Tools & materials:
$45 class fee covers ingredients, handouts and two canning jars with lids and rings. Knives will be provided, but you may bring your own if preferred. Aprons are highly recommended. Tied-back hair and closed-toe shoes are required.
Refund Policy:
No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within four days (96 hours) of a class, as supplies and ingredients will have been ordered. For earlier cancellations, only the class fee will be refunded, not booking fees
Class Maximum:
20 participants
It’s Not Too Late! Planting a Fall Garden
Oct. 25
About the Class:
Fall is one of the best times to start a garden in Southern California—it’s not too late! Join local gardener Kylie Gilliam in this hands-on workshop and learn the basics of fall and winter gardening. Gilliam will cover seasonal planting tips, what grows best in cooler weather and how to successfully care for your garden during the months ahead. Participants will receive all the materials and create a salad container garden to take home, planting a mix of leafy greens that thrive in fall. Whether you have a full backyard or just a sunny balcony, you’ll leave inspired and equipped to grow your own fresh, homegrown produce through the cooler seasons.
When:
Saturday, Oct. 25
Time:
10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
RSVP online by Oct. 17
About the speaker:
Kylie Gilliam is a certified Gardenary consultant and the founder of Blue Ribbon Garden, where she specializes in designing and installing edible gardens for urban spaces. With a passion for sustainable living, Gilliam empowers individuals and communities to grow their own food and create eco-friendly environments. Her expertise extends to permaculture principles, ensuring that each garden is both productive and in harmony with nature. Through her work, Gilliam fosters a deeper connection between people and the natural world, promoting health and sustainability.
Tools & materials:
A $40 fee covers all tools and materials, including a small container, soil and fall salad plants.
Refund Policy:
No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within four days (96 hours) of a class, as materials and plants will have been ordered. For earlier cancellations, only the class fee will be refunded, not booking fees.
Class Maximum:
30 participants
November
Hydroponics for the Home Gardener: Build Your Own System
Nov. 1
About the Class:
Join UC Master Gardeners for an engaging, hands-on class that takes hydroponic gardening to the next level! This session will introduce participants to the fundamentals of growing plants without soil, using nutrient-rich water. Attendees will learn about plant care, nutrient solutions, lighting requirements and system maintenance. Additionally, the class will feature a DIY portion where participants will assemble their own simple hydroponic system, designed for a single plant, which they can take home and use right away. All supplies, including a lettuce seedling, will be provided. Whether you have a small patio, a second-story balcony or a free spot indoors, hydroponic gardening is a space-efficient and sustainable way to grow fresh food year-round!
When:
Saturday, Nov. 1
Time:
10 a.m. – noon
RSVP online by Oct. 27
About the speaker:
The UC Master Gardeners are a team of local gardening enthusiasts dedicated to teaching best gardening practices. Trained by the University of California Cooperative Extension, they provide expert advice to gardeners of all skill levels. The Master Gardeners have presented at numerous horticultural events throughout Orange County and actively volunteer at Centennial Farm, inspiring others to incorporate gardening into their lives. They are committed to empowering the community through hands-on education and outreach.
Tools & materials:
A $15 fee covers all materials, including a simple hydroponic system and a lettuce seedling to take home.
Refund Policy:
There will be NO refunds for cancellations made within 48 hours of a class. For cancellations made prior, only the class fee will be refunded, not the booking fees.
Class Maximum:
30 participants
Winter’s Sweet Harvest With Persimmons
Nov. 22
About the Class:
Get ready to uncover the secrets of cultivating bountiful persimmon trees that yield nature’s candy! Led by seasoned horticulturist Isabel Barkman, you’ll explore the intricacies of different varieties. Proper soil, sunlight and other tips to nurture these exquisite fruits will be covered. From selecting the right varieties to pruning techniques, this class will give you the knowledge to grow your own delicious persimmons in your backyard. A favorite persimmon recipe will also be shared!
When:
Saturday, Nov. 22
Time:
10 a.m. – noon
RSVP online by Nov. 19
About the speaker:
Isabel Barkman is a local gardening expert and has been a member of the California Rare Fruit Growers Inc. since 1991. She is a former volunteer with the UCCE Orange County Master Gardener program. Barkman has presented at numerous plant and gardening events and volunteers at the South Coast Research and Extension Center in Irvine. She also volunteers at Centennial Farm, focusing on the care of various fruit and deciduous trees.
Tools & materials:
A $6 fee covers materials and any handouts.
Refund Policy:
There will be no refunds for cancellations made within 48 hours of a class. For cancellations made prior, only the class fee will be refunded, not the booking fees.
Class Maximum:
40 participants