Permaculture, a contraction of "permanent agriculture" and "culture," is a design system for sustainable, regenerative living that mimics natural ecosystem patterns to create self-sufficient, low-maintenance, and productive environments. Learn from expert Joan Herzog who transformed her ¼ acre lot in Camden into a lush bird and insect haven with over eighty-five native plants and large beds of fruits and vegetables. Joan gives a two-hour classroom presentation at Rose Hall on Thursday afternoon, followed by a Saturday morning visit to her garden nearby. Late October Classroom: Putting the garden to bed takes some effort but it’s worth it for over-wintering plants and having springtime success! We will discuss protecting perennials, sustainable fall soil management, mulching, watering, and winter habitat building for our bug and animal friends. Topics covered will include Bokashi composting, mycorrhizal fungi, and creating saffron crocus and mushroom beds. Saturday morning garden visit: This will be a hands-on experience building Hugelkulture, herb circles, and keyhole beds for fall plantings and springtime preparation. Joan will also demonstrate fruit tree and native bush winter preparation, animal habitats, late harvesting, planting woody herb seeds, and the winter sowing of annuals and perennials. Instructor Joan E. Herzog is a Permaculture Garden Designer, retired Registered Dietitian and health columnist with a passion for organic gardening. In five years, she converted a ¼ acre city lot into a lush bird and insect haven with over eighty-five native plant species and large beds of fruits and vegetables. Joan has taught hundreds of food/nutrition workshops and is thrilled to transition to teaching permaculture garden techniques. She swears that gardening is your best bet against an aging body and brain.