October is known as Garden Month, and this year’s theme is “From Garden to Table: Grow, Gather, Celebrate.” Although Garden Day will be celebrated on October 18, Mondlo Methodist Church took the initiative to host a workshop to educate its congregation about gardening and encourage members to grow their own food.

Department of Agriculture shares gardening knowledge

The church invited representatives from the Department of Agriculture, including Agricultural Extension Advisor Miss Nokuthula Mathe and Owen Sithole from the College of Agriculture, which operates under the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

The workshop was facilitated by training officer Miss Sphesihle Phahla, who shared her expertise in vegetable production and soil management.

Congregation learns about soil and plant health

Congregation members described the workshop as informative, particularly the lessons on the three major nutrients required for plant growth: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Phahla explained that a shortage of any of these nutrients could negatively affect plant development.

She also covered crop rotation, compost-making, different types of fertilisers, and the differences between beneficial and harmful pests. In addition, she demonstrated how grass can be used to improve plant health and conserve water.

Seeds distributed to encourage home gardening

Mathe promoted the One Home, One Garden initiative by providing all attendees with seeds to help them start their own gardens.

The workshop concluded with a practical session in which congregation members learnt how to plant correctly. Certificates of attendance will be awarded to participants in due course.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.