Order lunch and join Convivium Farm Manager, A.J., for an engaging and informative session all about tomatoes—one of the most beloved and rewarding crops for home gardeners. Whether you're a beginner or looking to improve your yield, this workshop will cover everything you need to know to grow healthy, productive tomato plants. A.J. will guide you through essential topics including tomato varieties, soil preparation, planting techniques, watering schedules, pest and disease management, and the all-important skill of pruning for optimal growth and fruit production.
Bring your questions, your curiosity, and perhaps even photos of your garden! You'll leave the session with practical tips, a better understanding of tomato plant care, and the confidence to cultivate a thriving tomato crop in your own backyard this season.
For participants planning to order food to eat during the presentation, please plan to arrive 15-20 minutes ahead to place your order at the coffeeshop counter. Your lunch will then be brought to you in the Learning Center to enjoy while you learn!
Registration is appreciated but not required for this free program.
Instructor Bio: AJ Shultz, Farm Manager AJ tends our 13,000 plus square feet of gardens. From building healthy soil through harvesting delicious produce, AJ keeps his hands dirty demonstrating the process of growing food to anyone willing to listen. When not in the field, AJ also teaches gardening and composting classes and serves as our garden tour guide. Trust us – you don’t want to miss an opportunity to experience our gardens with him. AJ has been involved in edible and sustainable landscaping and urban gardening most of his adult life. His training and professional background includes working with organic farms and edible landscape organizations in Santa Cruz, California; Huelo, Hawaii; and Margaret River, Australia. An Iowa native, AJ returned to the area in 2011 to raise a family with his wife Kerri, also an Iowa native. They now have two growing daughters, Josey and Marny.
