Winter/Waring School Holiday Program: Propagating Plants with Shani Shafrir

From little things, big things grow!

Designed for an audience ages 5 to 12, the Propagation Workshop is a hands-on sensory garden experience where children learn propagation techniques, soil structure & plant care in engaging, age appropriate language & activities.

Attendees will start with a guided exploration of their garden surroundings, engaging in educational story telling about the diversity of plants and soils onsite. 

These budding urban farmers will then learn about the preparation of pots and cuttings and about plant nodes, rooting and watering techniques. Participants will then select a plant from their local environment to apply their newly acquired propagation skills, taking home not only a potted propagated cutting but also a tailored care plan to continue their plant’s journey at home.

SHANI SHAFRIR (she/they) is a therapeutic horticulturist with a burning passion for creating communities around sustainable living, food growing and circular economy. She grew up in Israel, in an agricultural household, and brings with her years of experience in restaurants, university art departments, disability services and community gardens - skills and interests that inform her holistic practice. Shani firmly believes in the power of green spaces and gardening to bring people together, enhance wellbeing and bring about a sense of joy. Shani is a parent and holds a valid Victorian Working With Children check.

INCLUDED: Small pots, potting mix / soil, scissors, print outs, crayons.

BYO: Hats, drink bottles, sunscreen, gardening gloves (optional)

GOALS: This workshop focuses on sensory experiences in the garden, working in a group to build fine motoric skills, and learn about the ongoing care of plants - cultivating excitement about the natural world.

LOCATION:  Oakhill Farm, a not-for-profit urban farm and community enterprise in Preston.

This holiday program workshop is designed as child care alternative diuring the school holidays. It is capped at 10 children.

Waring (wombat) is the coldest, wettest Wurundjeri season. Spanning from April - July, during the waring season, mushrooms and moths flourish and wombats roam in the afternoon sun.