Registration for the "living gardens" training course

The AJCA-Jardins vivants Association will launch its 15th training program, entitled "Natural Garden Guide." This short course, running from September 2026 to June 2027, consists of 11 half-day or evening modules, with a maximum of 20 participants. It takes place primarily in the Villé Valley or within a 20 km radius of Sélestat, as it includes visits to gardens, orchards, and vegetable patches in the area.
With 300 participants since 2012, the "Natural Garden Guide" has become a classic in its field. The first cycle began in 2012, and since then, some 300 participants have acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to cultivate a natural garden or vegetable patch—that is, "a garden as close as possible to natural balances," according to Augustin Frigéni, president of the association. The themes explored during the 11 sessions will combine general knowledge with practical workshops. In the current period of intense drought and climate change, this knowledge will be invaluable for both novice and experienced gardeners. Seven instructors will lead the various sessions.
Themes and practical applications: How to design your garden taking into account climate and soil parameters. How to promote soil biological activity. How to encourage both plant and animal biodiversity. And of course, how to do without pesticides to protect your health, water resources, and the environment in general. "Like water: not wasting a drop" is a particularly relevant topic. Mulching, composting, taking cuttings, grafting, pruning, but also "a bountiful harvest" and "sharing experiences" are some of the key concepts of a training program that emphasizes sharing and experimentation. Upon completion of the training, participants will become resource people themselves, capable of sharing their acquired knowledge and experience with their families, friends, or within their community.
Practical Information: The training is free, but participants are expected to attend regularly (a deposit is required) and to participate in two events organized by the ACJCA association during the year. An in-depth presentation of the training and an initial meeting will be held on September 5th at 2:00 PM. The location will be provided to those interested. A workshop on "How to Harvest Tomato Seeds from Your Garden" will give participants a preview of what to expect.