Gardening, like many pursuits, continues to evolve based on the latest scientific studies and experimental evidence. In this class we’ll present science-based ways of employing companion planting to manage pests of many kinds, including insects, weeds, and disease. The process of observing and maintaining a healthy balance in our gardens directly aligns with principles of Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
In this class, we will:
– Discuss plant partnerships and why they work on a conceptual level, and provide examples of each
– Detail the IPM control types and implementation steps
Objective of this class:
To empower the home gardener to use these concepts to solve their own specific pest problems.
Presented by the Master Gardeners of San Mateo and San Francisco Counties:
Master Gardner Shilpa Thanawala: A San Carlos-based UC Master Gardener, Shilpa enjoys growing herbs, fruit trees, and vegetables to use for cooking and baking. Her small home garden contains more than 30 varieties of fruit trees, canes, and shrubs, a large herb garden, and many varieties of annual and perennial vegetables. She grows new and uncommon varieties from seed whenever possible and is always excited to share experiences and plants with both new and expert gardeners. A San Francisco native, Shilpa has a deep appreciation for the Bay Area’s unique microclimates and ecology, and is passionate about sustainable and environmentally beneficial approaches to gardening.
Master Gardener Kelly Torikai: Kelly is a Master Gardener and Master Composter. She enjoys learning, using and sharing sustainable garden principles. She is a member of the Master Gardeners’ Soil Specialists group and is particularly interested in soil, growing food and composting.
