SOS: Save Our Soils!

Have you tried to improve your dried out clay soil only to be disappointed by plants that failed to grow? Maybe you added all sorts of amendments, only to find that the pH has gone weird. Perhaps you gave up composting after it turned into a stinky, soggy mess?

This workshop is all about how to work with soil here in Canberra, to turn our uninspiring heavy clay into something rich and healthy that grows an abundance of fruit and vegetables! We'll share our commonsense approach to remediating soil problems with a bit of practical know how and good chunk of enthusiasm.

We'll look at:

• The role of perennial plants in feeding the soil and microbiology
• The role of weeds
• The role of time
• The role of water in boosting fertility
• Common issues with commercial soil and compost mixes
• Making some potting mix
• Making peace with the compost gods

We'll also cover what to do when things go wrong, including:

• Sense testing for aeration and moisture levels
• How to test soil pH (and how to rectify problems)
• A staged approach to improving soil, letting nature do some of the work

The class also includes tea, coffee and refreshments - where possible we feature something yummy from the garden.

This event will take place outdoors in a residential garden - the address will be provided in your confirmation email.

Some parts of the garden are sunny so please bring your hat and sunscreen! And of course, as it's outdoors, please wear weather-appropriate clothing, bring your own water bottle if it's hot and an umbrella if it's wet.

EXTRA INFORMATION:

Staying healthy: All of our workshops are held outdoors, with a limit on numbers to ensure there's plenty of space for everyone. If you are unwell please don't try to attend: our flexible refund policy (below) ensures you can get a refund or give your ticket to a friend at short notice.

Refund Policy: We allow full refunds (less the Eventbrite booking fee) right up to 24 hours before the event, or we can book you onto another day. You are also welcome to give your ticket to a friend if you can't make it. If you would like to reschedule, or change who will attend on your behalf, please contact Cally directly on 0410 121 272.

And if we have to cancel the event (e.g. terrible weather or illness of the host) you will of course receive a full refund.

Accessibility and parking: The house is on a quiet street with plenty of on-street parking. There are no steps to the class location - it's easily accessible for a mobility scooter or wheelchair. However, parts of the garden do include steps, so if you have a mobility impairment, please let us know ahead of time so we can tailor to your needs as much as we can. The toilet can also be accessed via a ramp to the front door if needed.

About your teacher: Dr. Cally Brennan

Cally has been practising permaculture for over 14 years. In 2013 she founded Canberra Permaculture Design and Education, a permaculture-focused garden design business in Canberra. She has qualifications in permaculture and advanced permaculture design and when she's not busy creating designs and plans for clients, she is out in the garden, planting, weeding, making wicking beds or hosting workshops. She also served as a Director and Treasurer on the Board of Permaculture Australia in 2018 and 2019.

Cally, together with partner Jeremy, and their daughter Sophie, manage their productive home food garden in Cook, along with three slightly mad chickens.

About the garden

The garden is on an 840 sqm residential block in Cook. That land also contains a house, driveway, existing trees and shrubs - so it's a pretty typical older suburban garden.

The aim is to see just how much food a home garden can produce. In 2024 the family harvested 434 kg of vegetables, fruit and eggs. The goal is to reach a tonne one day!

The garden sometimes gets a bit wild and weedy (two working adults means not a lot of time for maintenance gardening) but so long as it grows food while the soil gets more fertile, we're happy with that!

In this and other workshops Cally will lead you through what she and her family have learned on their journey - and invite you to try some of their techniques in your own garden!