Garden Consults

Yes, you could hire a landscaping company. Wouldn't it be MORE FUN to have a qualified, experienced professional teach you how to do it yourself? You save money, get a new hobby, and get nature cred to boot! Emphasis is on organic growing and native plants, although all landscapes are honored. Each session includes a soil test and  two hours to discuss plans, plants and techniques.  Cost: $150 in greater Concord area, $25/hour travel additional

Special talks for Garden Clubs, Groups, or as an attraction for your Garden Center. May be given indoors or outdoors. Admission charge is at the discretion of the hosting group. Cost: $150 in greater Concord area, $25/hour additional for travel outside the Concord, NH area. To get an idea of Ayn's presentation style go to NH Chronicle and search for "Compost" The original air date was May 1st, 2012. Additional topics are listed below.

"Climate Change for Dummies"
What is all the fuss? If you don't know what climate change is or how it is caused Ayn explains in understandable language what is truth and what is fiction based on the latest science. PowerPoint presentation, fee waived, travel only cost.

"Identifying Wild Plants Using Field Guides"
Ever wonder what the plants are on your favorite hike? Mystified by the terms in guidebooks? Bring your guidebooks and discover some new ones. Best from June-September as an outside, hands-on class.

"Gardening for the Cheap and Lazy"
No more $64 tomatoes! With knowledge and humor explore creative ways to get the job done, solve problems and have fun! You'll be surprised what the fellow gardeners in your group have as ideas as well. Either as PowerPoint or stand-alone. Worksheet included.

"Choosing Native Plants for the Home Landscape"
Native plants are all the rage, but which ones to use? Using an ecosystem-based approach Ayn will show you how to categorize your setting and choose the right plant. Can be given as a Power-Point presentation or a tour of Found Well Farm.

"How-to with Native Plants"
This is a how-to talk on establishing the best possible setting for either adding more plants or bringing out the best in the plants you have. Ideas on dealing with invasive plants, crowded landscapes, and design. Best as a PowerPoint presentation.

"Organic Gardening Basics"
If you have heard about the benefits of "Organic" but don't know how to do it yourself Ayn will go over the basics and help you to figure out which techniques are right for you. Find out why it is much more than just not using any pesticides. Handout included.

"Stand Up To Your Garden, Without Breaking Your Back!"
Many people take on too much when gardening or simply get overwhelmed when they start. Ayn will share the techniques she used as a professional gardener to save her back, her garden, and her sanity! By using my body and energy wisely, her was able to operate full time until she was 7 mo. pregnant, so she knows what she am talking about! As essential class for those with back problems or new to the garden. Handout included

"Compost"
Having earned the title "compost swilling slut" Ayn will use her academic and practical experience to enlighten even the most squeamish to the benefits of this most glorious gardening ingredient. Available as classroom talk or as a demonstration. Handout included.