How to Make a Keyhold Garden

UC Master Gardeners of Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties will present a FREE class on August 26 on How to Make a Keyhole Garden. Come learn this new technique for creating a raised garden bed with a compost bin built-in!

Keyhole gardens are circular raised beds in which crops are planted around an active composting basket in the center. A small aisle is built into the structure to access the compost basket, creating a unique "keyhole" shape. Kitchen scraps and grey water are added to the compost basket for continuous replenishment of the soil. The soil in the bed is also layered to boost its ability to maintain moisture and nourishment.

Taught by our popular composting instructor, UC Master Gardener Otis Johnson, the class will be held from 10 am to noon at the MG Demonstration Garden next to the rear parking lot at 1430 Freedom Blvd in Watsonville. To register, please visit mbmg.org.

The UC Master Gardeners also invite you to their "Hands on With Master Gardeners" public days at the Watsonville Demonstration Garden every Wednesday morning and every third Saturday of the month through the fall. Drop by any time between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon. You are welcome to bring plant samples and questions as well.