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
Scraps to Soil: Build Your Own Worm Compost Bin
March 21
About the Class:
Discover how worms can play a powerful role in reducing food waste and creating healthy soil. Led by John Craig of weCompost2, this class introduces participants to vermiculture, the practice of composting with worms. Vermiculture is an accessible and efficient way to recycle food scraps while producing nutrient-rich compost that supports plant growth and soil health. It is especially well suited for Southern California gardens, including apartments, patios and small outdoor spaces.
The class begins with an engaging lecture covering the basics of worm composting. Participants will learn how vermiculture works, which materials can be composted and how worms contribute to healthy soil ecosystems. Following the lecture, participants will take part in a hands-on activity in which they build their own mini worm compost bin. All materials are provided, and the instructor will guide participants step by step through setting up a bin that can be easily maintained at home. No prior gardening or composting experience is required.
When:
Saturday, March 21
Time:
10 a.m. – noon
RSVP online by March 14
About the Speaker:
John Craig is the founder and executive director of weCompost2, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting on-site composting and building healthy, living soils within local communities. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in geology and later completed advanced training in composting through a master composter program. His professional work focuses on soil health, waste reduction and education around sustainable composting systems that can be implemented at home, in schools and in community settings. Craig’s teaching style emphasizes practical knowledge, environmental responsibility and approachable solutions that make composting accessible to people of all experience levels.
Tools & materials:
The class fee is $25 for adults and $5 for ages 17 and under. All materials needed to create a mini worm compost bin during the class, including worms, are provided. Participants are encouraged to bring a pair of garden gloves.
Refund Policy:
No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within seven (7) days of a class. For cancellations made prior, only the class fee will be refunded. Booking fees are nonrefundable.
Class Maximum:
50 participants
Citrus for Southern California Gardens: Choosing, Growing and Caring for Trees
March 28
About the Class:
Whether you are planting your first citrus tree or looking to improve the health and productivity of established trees, this informative class led by Isabel Barkman provides practical, region-specific guidance. Participants will learn how to select citrus varieties best suited for Southern California, understand rootstocks and tree size and apply best practices for planting, watering, fertilizing, mulching and pruning. The class also covers seasonal care, common pests, diseases and tips for keeping citrus trees productive year after year. This lecture-based class is designed to build confidence and help gardeners make informed decisions for long-term citrus success.
When:
Saturday, March 28
Time:
10 a.m. – noon
RSVP online by March 25
About the Speaker:
Isabel Barkman is a local gardening expert and has been a member of the California Rare Fruit Growers Inc. since 1991. 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 contributes her expertise at Centennial Farm, caring for a variety of fruit and deciduous trees.
Tools & materials:
$7 fee covers materials and any handouts.
Refund Policy:
No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within 48 hours of a class. For cancellations made prior, only the class fee will be refunded. Booking fees are nonrefundable.
Class Maximum:
50 participants
April
Hydroponics for the Home Gardener: Build Your Own System
April 18
About the Class:
Join UC Master Gardeners for an engaging, hands-on class that takes hydroponic gardening to the next level! This session introduces 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 in which participants assemble a 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, April 18
Time:
10 a.m. – noon
RSVP online by April 13
About the Speaker:
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:
No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within 48 hours of a class. For cancellations made prior, only the class fee will be refunded. Booking fees are nonrefundable.
Class Maximum:
30 participants