Growing in Small Spaces: Edible, Biodiverse, and Multi-functional Plantings

About the Workshop

For those urban gardeners who are eager to maximize the potential of their small space, this workshop may be for you. Whether it’s a backyard, a community garden plot, or even just a balcony, there are ways that we can increase our production and enjoy the fruits of our labour with increased food, beauty, medicine and/or habitat. We shall strategize about how to use available space most effectively in terms of choice of plant, plant placement, permaculture design strategy and biodiversity. Creating multiple functions, xeriscaping and mutual support systems come into play. This workshop will include a walk through the farm so please bring proper footwear and dress for the weather. Bring your own mug as we shall prepare a fresh, herbal tea for ourselves to enjoy while we learn..

About the Instructor

Sarah Orlowski is a Master Herbalist who has trained in First Nations herbal traditions. She has her Permaculture Design Certificate, believing that growing in accordance with Nature will be the sustainable way of the future. Sarah has taught for many institutions, including UBC Farm, Simon Fraser University, the Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine, the Canadian College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capilano and Douglas Colleges and Van Dusen Gardens. Currently, Sarah helps to run an organic orchard and medicinal herb farm in the southern interior of BC, where she makes her products and trains student apprentices. She has a private clinical practice, where she gives health consultations and Qi Gong healing treatments.

Date and Time

Saturday, August 16, 2025 from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, with a break from 12:00 – 1:00 pm.

Location

UBC Farm

Cost

General: $65.10 (includes GST)
Students and Seniors: $57.75(includes GST)

A SPECIAL DISCOUNT is available for signing up for the full short course with Sarah (Saturday, Aug 16th AND Sunday, Aug 17th). After registering for this particular day of the course, you will receive a code for a 20% discount off the registration fee for the other day.