Before getting started, it is important to reflect on intentions. The handout, provided at the workshop, is a tool to assist with this process. And remember ….

IT’S A MARATHON, NOT A SPRINT!

• Participants will be introduced to an assessment tool that explores features they might like to incorporate into their gardens.
• Facilitators will share stories about their experiences to highlight options, barriers, and solutions.
• Once intentions are in place, the planning will begin. Two more tools will be provided to assist with site analysis and design principles. There is lots to think about.

• Once the garden has been planted, the next step needs to be implemented – sustaining the garden. Another handout provides many suggestions and questions to help teams develop long-term strategies to keep the garden flourishing.

Gardening with an ecological conscience is a way to work in harmony with nature instead of against it. The benefits are numerous:

• Supports biodiversity by providing essential food and shelter for animals (including pollinators and decomposers).
• Reduces carbon footprint
• Builds a resilient landscape 
• Conserves water
• Reduces waste
• Produces healthier food

Here are a few questions to help ignite Ecological Conscious Gardening reflection:

1. Where do the materials used to make the product come from?

2. How toxic is the production and disposal of the product/activity?

3. How much energy is used to produce this product or engage in the activity?

4. How long will purchased materials last?

5. Is transportation required to produce or manufacture this product or engage in the activity?

6. How is the land (ecosystems) impacted by this use? (Consider things like pesticide use, habitat for animals and plants, water…)

7. What questions do you have – ones that would help you make a more informed decision? Research them!

Check out these links 

• Nature Canada Gardening For Biodiversity
• Canadian Wildlife Federation Earth Friendly Gardening
  

Recommendations from Algoma Health Unit were provided along with a Benefit-Risk Assessment. A Benefit-Risk assessment is a great tool that allows for a thorough exploration of ways to manage any possible risks. It is provides transparency for administration, families, and team members. The document provided is a sample. Each team should use it as a starting point – it should be used as a springboard for discussion so that a document can be created by teams that works for them. It is also a living document – one that should be reassessed often.

A burlap garden sack and hooks were provided so that the garden could be hung on a fence. Soil and soil enhancers were added and participants were given a few plants to get started. 

1. Calendula
   It is an incredibly easy to grow annual and can tolerate many growing conditions, but prefers well-drained soil in a sunny or partly shaded location. It’s a ‘trap crop’, and also can be used for Ecoprinting.
   Manitoba Master Gardener
2. Lemon Balm
   Grown for its lemon-scented leaves, lemon balm can be used fresh in salads and vinegars or dried to make teas. It can be invasive, so take care where it is planted.
   Toronto Master Gardeners
3. Nasturtiums
   Easy to grow from seed, these fast-growing plants offer bright flowers, edible leaves and blooms, and even help draw pests away from nearby vegetables. They are also wonderful for Ecoprinting.|
   Old Farmer’s Almanac: Planting and Growing Nasturtiums from Seed
4. Laxton’s Progress Peas. Although peas can grow in part shade, they won’t be as sweet or productive as those grown in full sun. A wonderful playground treat (after washing).
   Old Farmer’s Almanac:  How to Grow Peas: Complete Guide to Planting, Growing, and Harvesting Peas

• A Little Seed