Backyard Biochar: Build Your Garden Soil with a Simple Amendment

Backyard Biochar is a 2 hour workshop introducing biochar, the many types of soil carbon, how we make biochar, the many uses, the tools required, terrapreta and biochar’s long history. If there is time and interest, we will talk about preparing the biochar, the soil food web and different composting processes. Participant interaction is encouraged. Please bring protective equipment, including leather gloves, hair ties, closed toe shoes and generally avoid plastic & synthetic clothing.

Paul Kroll is a permaculture homestead designer residing in Lake County. He uses his history in architecture and conventional system design to create integrated living systems and human habitat. His continued observation of Florida ecosystems led him to biochar and the problems it solves. Paul now makes biochar and biochar kilns in community backyards and at the welding shop. He is always available for permaculture site designs and community education projects.

General Admission: $35
Low Income/Senior: $17 (limited number)

Although our base price for this course is $35, Sweetwater is a nonprofit that puts on educational programs for elementary schools in the neighborhood and teaches them about food systems and basically where their food comes from. We also host community volunteer days and a farmer’s market every Sunday from November through May. You can donate to Sweetwater in addition to your course fee if you’d like to help us continue our programs. And if you want to get your hands dirty in our gardens you can contribute your time by volunteering Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday mornings from 9-12.