AECL 1060 Market Farming:

This course introduces the student to essential farm and garden skills applicable to everything from backyards to commercial scale operations. The student will study the core principles of regenerative small farm management including soil health and preparation, crop variety selection, planting techniques and timing, harvesting, season extension strategies, and marketing. Emphasis is placed on how each subject fits into the broader framework of a successful farm or garden, enabling the student to develop a holistic, well-coordinated approach to growing food. (0.5-1 lect., 1-4 lab)

Credits

1-3 credits

Major Topics

Crop planning and variety selection
Seed starting
Soil health and management
Planting techniques
Irrigation methods
Pest and weed management
Harvest and marketing
Composting
Season extension

Outcomes

In order to successfully complete this course, the student will:

1. Describe the essential activities performed on specialty crop farms throughout the season.

2. Explain how each essential activity is related and integrated.

3. Compare different management methods in relation to growing specialty crops.

4. Apply regenerative principles.

5. Discuss the impact of local food production in the broader context of the food system.