Compost Workshop with Jessica Craven
The City of Ojai Community Demonstration Garden was brimming with residents eager to learn how to make compost this morning.
Workshop participants learned about the pros and cons of the various bins on display and had a look at the compost bins available through the city's compost bin discount program.
Master Gardener Jessica Craven covered all the basics, and discussed several different styles of composting. She also talked about the advantages of vermicomposting, which is ideal for those without yards who would like to keep food scraps out of the landfill and create a rich soil amendment.
Participants helped build a compost pile, and then had a look at a finished compost pile that was made at the last workshop in December.
Photos by Les Dublin.
From the numerous private gardens found throughout Ojai to outdoor Ojai destinations to over a million acres of national forest, The Ojai Garden is the greater Ojai Valley as a giant natural garden to explore, cultivate and learn from.



Participants had a look at at the Demo Garden's irrigation controller and learned the basic principles of installing and operating a controller at home.
A newly installed bed, demonstrating California native plants that are appropriate for planting near oaks, needed irrigation, and provided the perfect opportunity for the hands-on portion of the workshop. 
Now that they have had a chance to do it themselves, these county residents will be able to set up their own low-flow irrigation system at home, conserve water and save money, too! Photos by Les Dublin.
At this free, hands-on workshop, you will learn how to set up and maintain a low-flow irrigation system that can reduce water use (and water bills) and keep your plants happy at the same time! The workshop will take place at 10:00 a.m. on April 19, 2008, in the City of Ojai Community Demonstration Garden, 401 South Ventura Street, behind Ojai City Hall.
Although delicate looking, Blue-eyed grass is cold hardy and drought tolerant once established.
Photos by Les Dublin.
