Classes at Haven & Earth
Hands on Learning. Practical Skills.
Sustainable Living.
At Haven & Earth, our 12-week gardening and sustainability classes provide the knowledge, tools, and hands-on experience needed to grow food, care for the land, and build a more sustainable lifestyle. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced grower, our seasonal courses will guide you from seed to harvest and beyond.
Classes are available both spring and fall.
Course Curriculum
Week 1
Seeds & Germination
Everything starts with a seed. This week, we’ll explore different types of seeds, the conditions they need to sprout, and how to successfully germinate plants. You'll get hands-on experience starting seeds for your own garden, setting the foundation for a thriving growing season.
Week 2
Soil & Location
Healthy plants start with healthy soil. We’ll teach you how to test your soil, amend it naturally, and choose the best garden location based on sunlight, drainage, and microclimates. Learn how soil structure, pH, and nutrients impact plant health and productivity.
Weeks 3 & 4
Vegetables & Herbs
What should you grow? These weeks focus on selecting vegetables and herbs that thrive in Texas, planning garden layouts, and understanding plant compatibility. You’ll also learn about crop rotation, companion planting, and how to extend your harvest throughout the season.
Weeks 5 & 6
Fruit & Nut Trees
Growing your own fruit and nuts is a long-term investment with big rewards. We’ll cover the best varieties for our region, how to plant and care for young trees, pruning techniques, and how to protect them from pests and diseases.
Week 7
Bugs - Friends & Foes
Not all bugs are bad! This week is all about understanding the balance of nature. We’ll identify common garden pests, explore natural pest control methods, and introduce beneficial insects that help keep your garden healthy without relying on chemical pesticides.
Weeks 8 & 9
Compost & Vermicompost
Composting turns food scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich soil, and vermiculture (worm composting) is a powerful way to speed up the process. Learn how to build and maintain a compost system that fits your space and lifestyle, reducing waste while improving soil health.
Week 10
Harvesting
Timing is everything when it comes to harvesting. This week, we’ll teach you how to recognize when vegetables, fruits, and herbs are at their peak ripeness, how to harvest correctly to encourage more growth, and simple ways to store your produce for longer shelf life.
Week 11
Cover Crops & Mulch
The growing season might be winding down, but your soil still needs care. Learn how cover crops and mulch can protect and enrich your soil, prevent erosion, and suppress weeds, preparing your garden for the next planting season.
Week 12
Permaculture & Sustainablility
Bringing it all together, we’ll explore the principles of permaculture (working with nature to create self-sustaining systems). This week focuses on long-term soil health, water conservation, food forests, and techniques that make your garden thrive with less effort over time.