Healthy gardens start with healthy soil. In this five-session course on Tuesdays from Oct. 28 to Nov. 4 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. or 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. for the onsite class, soil expert Monique Bosch will guide students through the essentials of soil science and its impact on plant growth — from drainage and pH to nutrient availability. You’ll learn how to assess your own soil, identify and improve problem areas, and amend soils for different gardening needs. Topics include fertilizers and amendments, composting techniques, moisture management, and the benefits and drawbacks of mulching. Before the first class, students are asked to obtain a soil test and bring the results to share and discuss.

Monique Bosch brings deep knowledge and hands-on experience in landscape design, horticulture, and soil biology. Over the past 15 years, she has helped create more than 40 edible school and community gardens, along with a two-acre urban farm in Bridgeport, Conn. She serves as soil health program manager for Northeast Organic Farming Association of Connecticut and co-runs a worm composting business with her son. Monique also teaches soil management at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, where she shares her passion for living soil and its connection to vibrant, nutritious food through microscopy and real-world trials.