This is a 6-week course designed for people who want to transform their back garden into an enjoyable yet low-maintenance space.
You don't need green fingers or hours of free time – you just need a smart plan. And a supportive group.
Our principles
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Practical guidance for busy people. Only information you need as an urban gardener.
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Encouraging wildlife. From pest control to fertilizers we teach to use most eco-friendly options.
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Community-based. It's not just about theory. It's about forming good habits, sharing tips and supporting each other through trial and error.
Pain points addressed
Introductory day course (21 March 2026)
We will take you through the fundamentals of gardening and growing. Perfect for someone just getting into their first garden or plot.
A 3-hour intensive introduction delivered by Harmony's growing team, covering the following elements:
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Planning & assessing your space
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Soil
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Growing from seed, plants and propagation
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Nurturing growth - watering, feeding & biodiversity
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Garden maintenance, bringing it all together
This will be followed by a Q&A and and tour of the gardens (optional).
In-person only at Harmony Gardens, N17 6HG, Lordship Recreation Ground
6 week course
18 April: Planning Your Garden
Sun, shade, wind, water access. Hardiness zones and frost dates. Privacy and security planting. Annual observations. Garden structures. Essential tools and safety.
26 April: Is Your Soil Good Enough?
Soil composition. Basics of soil testing . The role and cycle of organic matter. Specifics of London clay soil. Introduction to composting. Limited-space composting. Importance of mulch.
2 May: Choosing Plants
Understanding seed packets. Choosing plants for places. Specifics of growing herbs and vegetables. Sowing. Starting seeds indoors. Transplanting. Taking cuttings and dividing. Companion planting.
9 May: Nurturing Growth and Wildlife
Proper watering techniques. Signs of over- and underwatering. Plant nutritional needs throughout the growth cycle. Types of fertilizers and how to apply them. Lawn management. Encouraging biodiversity.
16 May: Tackling Weeds and Pests
Common weeds and effective removal techniques. Pruning and support structures for encouraging growth. Dead-leafing. Common garden pests and diseases. Introduction to Integrated Pest Management. Organic control methods.
23 May: No class. Weeding week
30 May: Sharing Results and Q&A
Where and When
In-person
Attend classes at Harmony Gardens, N17 6HG, Lordship Recreation Ground
Online
Watch recordings at your own pace and join the community online
Time Commitment:
1.5 hours per week
Where and When
In-person
Attend classes at Harmony Gardens, N17 6HG, Lordship Recreation Ground
Online
Watch recordings at your own pace and join the community online
Time Commitment:
1.5 hours per week
Your Instructors
Course will be delivered by the team behind Harmony Gardens, a community garden in Haringey.
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