In mid September we will be offer a course for those who want to focus specifically on fruit and vegetable production (Zones 1 and 2 in “permie” talk). In permaculture gardens an abundance of diverse foods are grown in a way that mimics the relationships observed in natural ecosystems. This means that the soil fertility is always enriched without need for chemical fertilizers, plants grow healthy in a balanced environment where chemical pesticides are not necessary and there are no negative effects on the environment or the people that consume the produce. We work with nature not against it, all the while conserving natural resources, water, money and a lot of time!
ABOUT PERMACULTURE FOOD GARDENS
An abundance of diverse foods are grown in a way that mimics the relationships observed in natural ecosystems. This means that the soil fertility is always enriched without need for chemical fertilizers, plants grow healthy in a balanced environment where chemical pesticides are not necessary and there are no negative effects on the environment or the people that consume the produce. We work with nature not against it, all the while conserving natural resources, water, money and a lot of time!
PERSONALISED TRAINING
Upon registration NGP will send you an electronic questionnaire. We will use the information provided as a guide to personalise the curriculum to best suit the needs of all stakeholders. It is strongly recommended that the questionnaire is filled with as much detail as possible by the main stakeholder (i.e. the garden owner, the employer, etc)
ABOUT THE COURSE STRUCTURE
THEORY, DEMONSTRATION & PRACTICE
This course is designed for experienced gardeners as well as those who are just getting started. There is a strong emphasis on hands-on practicals, that will enable gardeners to return to their gardens and implement the principles and techniques learnt as soon as possible.
The first two days of the six day (56 hours) course will be held on the 13th and 14th of September. Participants will then return to their gardens for a week and a half of observation, practice and implementation. On the 27th and 28th of September the participants will return to NGP to discuss their homework and to learn more theory, techniques and practices. Participants will return for the third and final module on October 4th and 5th for remaining practical, course work and a certificate ceremony.
TOPICS COVERED
- Water saving and management
- Soil conservation, repair and fertility
- Green manures and composting systems
- Propagation techniques
- Organic and integrated pest management
- Seasonal planting calendar
- Overview of animals in the garden
- Diet diversity and nutrition
- Food forests and orchard
COURSE LANGUAGE
The course will be conducted in English with full Chichewa translation
COURSE DATES AND TIMES
Classes will begin at 8:00am sharp every day.
- Monday 13th & Tuesday 14th September 2010; 8:00am to 4:30pm
- Monday 27th & Tuesday 28th September 2010; 8:00am to 4:30pm
- Monday 4th & Tuesday 5th October 2010; 8:00am to 4:30pm
OPTIONAL PRE-COURSE SITE VISIT
NGP staff are available to conduct a site visit to your garden and to discuss with you the food, health, and nutrition requirements for you and your family. If you are sponsoring a staff member for the course we highly recommend that both you and your staff member are available for the personal consultations. We feel strongly that this will increase the effectiveness of the course and help facilitate a design to turn your goals and expectations into reality.
CERTIFICATION
Upon successful completion and with full attendance, participants will receive a certificate of attendance which highlights the main areas of competency.
COSTS
Listed below in USD, and also payable in ZAR, GBP, or MK at bank rates of exchange.
- $215 per person includes the 56 hour theory and practical course, with lunch and two tea breaks (with nutritious snacks) every day
- $35 per pre-course personal consultation within a 20 km radius of City Centre, Lilongwe
PLEASE NOTE: We aim to provide training to anyone who wants it and do not want cost to be a prohibitive factor in participation on the course. Please contact us if you wish to donate money to sponsor someone or if you need sponsorship for this course.
