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.
March
Hydroponics for the Home Gardener: Build Your Own System
March 22
About the Class:
Join UCCE 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, March 22
Time:
10 a.m. – noon
RSVP online by March 19
About the Speaker:
The UCCE 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 UCCE 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:
$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
April
Sow and Grow! Start Your Own Container Garden
April 5
About the Class:
Starting a garden from seeds is a rewarding journey that not only saves money compared to purchasing nursery seedlings but also connects you with the full cycle of plant growth. Join local gardener Kylie Gilliam in this hands-on class to learn the essentials of starting a garden from scratch, perfect for small container gardening. Participants will explore how to select, germinate and grow seeds successfully in soil, gaining practical skills they can apply at home. You’ll receive salad and herb seeds from California Specialty Crops, soil, plant tags and a small planting container to kick-start your gardening journey. Whether you have a spacious backyard or just a sunny apartment window, this DIY class will inspire you to incorporate fresh, homegrown produce into your life!
When:
Saturday, April 5
Time:
10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
RSVP online by March 28
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:
$25 fee covers all materials, including a small container box, soil and seeds
Refund Policy:
There will be NO refunds for cancellations made within seven (7) days of a class. For cancellations made prior, only the class fee will be refunded, not the booking fees.
Class Maximum:
20 participants
Paradise in Bloom: A Beginner’s Guide to Plumeria Care
April 19
About the Class:
With their vibrant, tropical blooms and captivating fragrance, plumerias bring a touch of paradise to any garden! Understanding rooting, water requirements and soil preferences are critical for successfully growing plumeria, and this workshop is designed to guide you through a successful growing season. This hands-on class will include everything you need to root a plumeria cutting, including the cutting itself, a one-gallon nursery pot and soil. April is the perfect time to learn the basics of plumeria care, and under the guidance of Kim Schultz, UCCE-certified Master Gardener and past president of the Southern California Plumeria Society. You’ll gain practical knowledge and skills and take home a plumeria of your own! Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a true plumeria expert while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Centennial Farm.
When:
Saturday, April 19
Time:
10 a.m. – noon
RSVP online by April 14
About the Speaker:
Kim Schultz is a passionate gardener and a dedicated member of the Master Gardener Association of San Diego County. As a past president of the Southern California Plumeria Society of San Diego and editor of the SCPS Plumeria Handbook, she brings years of expertise and enthusiasm for growing plumerias to the classes she teaches. When she’s not inspiring others to embrace the joys of gardening, Schultz spends her time with family and baking award-winning pies.
Tools & materials:
$25 fee covers a plumeria cutting, pot and soil. We recommend bringing a pair of garden gloves.
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 booking fees).
Class Maximum:
20 participants