Sonairte is closed until 29^th February

Please note that Sonairte is closed to the public until 29^th February 2012. In the meantime please contact us by emailing info@sonairte.ie.  Thank you.

SONAIRTE COURSES 2012

To register for courses, please email info@sonairte.ie .

WINTER PRUNING, A MUST DO COURSE – NEW

Tutor:  Kevin Dudley has worked over 10 years as Orchard Manager in Irish Seed Savers, where he has been involved with the setting up, collecting and propagating of the Apple collection, along with other tree fruits.  He has also studied Agro-ecology and Sustainable food systems in the University of California, he is currently working on a Bio Dynamics farm in Kilkenny his main interest is apple trees and plant breeding. 

 This course will take place in Sonairte’s walled garden which dates from 1750.  You will be amazed by its wonderful selection of old apple tree varieties. The garden also grows plums, pears, damsons, grapes and soft fruit.

 Theory: Why Prune? Root-stocks, tools, types and habit.

Practical: Each tree is different when you know what you are doing you can apply it to your own trees!

 Date:  Saturday, February 18th
Time: 10am – 4pm
Cost: €60 (morning tea/coffee)

 

HEDGE LAYING BEGINNERS COURSE – OFF SITE (TBA)

 With the Hedge Laying Association of Ireland

Tutor: Andy Booth

-                     Basic Introduction to hedge laying, including health and safety.

-                  Preparation, laying, coppicing/inter-planting, hedge and tool maintenance (tools supplied).

-                  Opportunity to purchase saws and billhooks.

Bring sturdy footwear, hard wearing rain gear, thick sleeve top, thorn proof gloves, safety glasses.

Date: Saturday, February 25th

Time: 10am – 4pm

Cost: €60.00 (morning tea/coffee)

Sonairte was established in 1988 by members of the local community and concerned environmentalists to provide education in all aspects of ecology. The founders drew inspiration from organisations such as the Centre for Alternative Technology in Wales, the HDRA (now Garden Organic) in the UK and the Permaculture Research Institute in Australia.

 The garden at Sonairte has had organic certification since 1986 and has been teaching commercial and back garden organic horticulture, ecology, biodiversity, green building and sustainable living ever since.