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.
SEPTEMBER
Make It, Take It with Autumn Apples: Crafting a Preserve and Shallot Chutney
Sept. 21
About the Class:
As autumn arrives and apples reach their peak, it’s the perfect time to learn how to preserve the season’s flavors. Join us for an interactive food preservation workshop focused on turning fresh, crisp apples into delightful, shelf-stable treats. In this session, the Master Food Preservers of Orange County will guide you through making classic apple preserves and a unique shallot chutney that balances the sweetness of apples with the savory depth of shallots. Whether you’re an avid gardener looking to extend the life of your harvest or someone interested in crafting homemade preserves, this workshop offers the perfect blend of tradition and creativity.
When:
Saturday, Sept. 21
Time:
9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
RSVP online by Sept. 18
About the Speakers:
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:
$40 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-toed shoes are required.
Refund policy – There will be NO refunds for cancellations made within 4 days (96 hours) of the class, as supplies and ingredients will have been ordered. For cancellations made before the deadline, only the class fee will be refunded, not booking fees.
Class Maximum:
20 participants
OCTOBER
Rooted in California: An Introduction to Gardening with Native Plants
Oct. 12
About the Class:
Join biologist Jonathan Mills-Anderson for an engaging and informative introduction to California’s native plants. This class will cover the basics of selecting, incorporating and managing native species in your garden. Whether you’re new to gardening or looking to enhance your landscape with sustainable and drought-tolerant plants, you’ll learn why creating an environmentally-friendly garden is not only beautiful but also a meaningful way to stay rooted in California’s natural heritage.
When:
Saturday, Oct. 12
Time:
10 a.m. – noon
RSVP online by Oct. 9
About the Speakers:
Jonathan Mills-Anderson grew up with a deep passion for wildlife, and spent a lot of time volunteering at the Orange County Bird of Prey Center – a rehabilitation center for hawks, owls, vultures and more. He later became a part of the Centennial Farm team at the OC Fair, serving as the exhibit specialist for the summer’s Garden and Floral department. Away from the OC Fair, Jonathan is a wildlife biologist, earning his bachelor’s degree in New Hampshire and master’s in Australia. He is returning to Australia next year to pursue his Ph.D.
Tools & materials:
$7 fee covers materials and any handouts.
Refund policy – There will be NO refunds for cancellations made within 2 days (48 hours) of the class. For cancellations made before the deadline, only the class fee will be refunded, not booking fees.
Class Maximum:
40 participants
Fall Fruit Focus: Caring for Citrus and Avocado Trees
Oct. 26
About the Class:
Join local expert Isabel Barkman, a member of the California Rare Fruit Growers, for an in-depth class on fall tree care for citrus and avocados. Learn the best practices for planting, feeding, pruning and caring for your trees during this season, as well as tips for maximizing blooming and harvesting. Whether you’re a seasoned grower or new to citrus and avocado care, this lecture will equip you with the knowledge you need to ensure your trees thrive throughout the fall and beyond.
When:
Saturday, Oct. 26
Time:
10 a.m. – noon
RSVP online by Oct. 23
About the Speakers:
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. She has presented at numerous plant and gardening events and is a volunteer at the South Coast Research and Extension Center in Irvine. She also volunteers at Centennial Farm, focusing on caring for various fruit and deciduous trees.
Tools & materials:
$7 fee covers materials and any handouts.
Refund policy – There will be NO refunds for cancellations made within 2 days (48 hours) of the class. For cancellations made before the deadline, only the class fee will be refunded, not booking fees.
Class Maximum:
40 participants