Home & Garden

Although the effects of climate change can already be seen in our communities, many of us are uncertain about why this is happening or how best to respond. How do you know that climate change is real and the result of human activities? Scientist Sara Via, Ph.D, will use plain language to make this phenomena understandable and interesting. You will learn of the major impact that climate change has on weather, food and water security, biodiversity and health. Solutions are already available, and the economics of mitigating issues of climate-related disasters now rather than later will be discussed. Note: If after taking this course you want to learn more, consider registering for the five session course Climate Change: Impact and Solutions offered in April.

This course is a more in depth look at climate change as first presented in the winter course Climate Change: Already in Your Neighborhood. Take a closer look at climate’s impact on weather, human and animal well-being, agriculture, food and water security and even your home garden. The good news is that there are tools available right now that will help us all adapt to climate change. Along with presentations and discussions of the solutions that are possible at the state, local and individual/family levels, you will consider the economic and social cost/benefit of climate action. There will be ample opportunity in each session to discuss and ask questions.

NOTE: The one-session class (XE-702) is not a pre-requisite for this class. This course will provide additional detail without being redundant. Instructor: Sara Via, Ph.D.

The art of container gardening is full of possibilities from ornamental to edible, or even a mix of the two. Let Christian Melendez instruct you on the best practices and combinations to realize your vision for your space. Study floral arrangements, vegetable and fruit growing plants and spend some time examining and discussing container types, especially those that are self-watering, solving every gardener’s dilemma.

As the winter drags on, thoughts of spring take root. Join Christian Melendez and learn how to start and propagate your own seedlings. By adapting the basic elements that greenhouse growers use, gardeners in this class use creativity in their space to get a head start on the growing season by starting their own seedlings from seed and propagating existing plants...all on a budget. Other benefits to starting your own seedlings include ensuring higher quality and timing your plants so they are ready to go for planting.

If you have plans to sell your home, this is the class for you!

Learn simple and useful techniques like how to declutter, plan space, de-personalize, and create enhanced photographs for online marketing and buyer showings. Optimize the value of your property in a competitive market.

Instructor Julie Allison

Do you feel helpless when confronted with a home repair? This limited hands-on class teaches you how to fix common household problems easily and safely. Enjoy the savings and satisfaction of learning tips, tools, and skills for simple jobs around the house. Topics include power tools, carpentry, plumbing, and electricity. Instructor Patrick Boyer