Soil Blocking 101

Soil blocking has been gaining popularity recently, especially in the cut flower world, but also for vegetable and hobby gardeners. And for good reason! Not only is it a sustainable and environmentally friendly way to start seeds, it is also super easy, cost-effective, and produces healthier plants than many other methods. If you are ready to learn how to soil block, this class will teach you everything you need to know to begin, just in time to start your flower and vegetable seeds for this coming growing season. 

In this interactive class, Mariel McDonnell, flower farmer and owner of Cozy Cottage Florals, will walk you through her entire process including:

• Why you should soil block
• What soil recipe to use & how to mix it
• Supplies you need to make soil blocks and grow them inside until it’s time to plant out
• How to make soil blocks and what trays to use
• How to sow seeds into soil blocks
• How to take care of your soil blocks after you’ve sown your seeds
• How to water and fertilize your soil blocks
• How and when to pot up or plant your blocks outside

You will also have the opportunity to practice making your own soil blocks & sowing seeds into them. And you will get to take your first soil blocks home with you when you leave! A class workbook will be provided detailing the whole process and will include other recommended resources so that you feel confident making your own soil blocks once you get home.

Program Notes:

Arrival & Parking: Parking takes place in the field above the farmhouse. Plan to arrive 10 minutes early so we can begin the class on time.

Materials:  Bring a pair of gardening gloves to use during this class. If you already have a soil blocker at home, please bring it with you too! If you don’t have one yet, you may choose to purchase one prior to this class, however, there will be blockers available for use during the class, so purchasing one ahead of time is not necessary.

Environment: This class will take place in our greenhouse across the road from our farmhouse. Please check the weather in advance and dress appropriately for gardening

Cancellation Policy: All programs are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, including inclement weather. Participants will receive an email in the days preceding the program for any changes or cancellations. You can review our current Cancellation and Refund Policy here. 

About the Instructor: Mariel McDonnell

Mariel McDonnell is a local flower farmer and the owner of Cozy Cottage Florals. She has been a public school teacher for the past 11 years. She has been growing and selling cut flowers since 2023 and growing her own vegetables from seed since 2020. A Lititz, PA native, she has lived in both Virginia and Connecticut and just recently relocated back to Lancaster County. She has two daughters, Charlie and Ava, and husband, Branden. She is passionate about sharing her love of growing things with others!