Soil Science 101 Workshop

Are you tired of trying to keep your houseplants alive, only to have them wilt and die? The key to a healthy and thriving indoor garden is in the soil.

We’re excited to announce Plymouth-based Bethan Russell the founder of Silver Roots will run a Soil Science 101 workshop at Dora House on Thursday 25 May at 6pm.

You’ll learn how to mix the perfect soil for all your houseplants! It is potting season after all!

Our workshop is designed for beginners and seasoned plantaholics alike, and will cover the following topics:

- Understanding the importance of soil structure and composition

- Identifying the right soil mix for different types of plants

- Making your own soil mix at home

- Troubleshooting common soil problems

You’ll be learning from our expert soil scientists, who have years of experience in creating optimal soil blends for various types of plants. Plus, you’ll get hands-on experience in mixing your own soil, so you can feel confident in your skills.

At the end of this workshop you get to take away:

- 10 Litres of your choice of potting mixture (mix & match available)

- 1 Litre of activated charcoal

- 1 Litre of worm castings

- A work booklet we will complete together

- Soil recipes to take home to get mixing some more

The workshop will coincide with the installation on the sculpture terrace of Jacques Nimki's Florilegium (2023), a new installation created by the artist as part of the Great Exhibition Road Festival.

Jacques Nimki’s Florilegium is a contemporary version of historical books of botanical drawings recording rare and exotic plants. The word comes from the Latin flos and legere: literally a gathering of flowers. The artist’s installation draws our attention to the soil rather than the flowers that need it to flourish. Soil, which is easy to overlook, is a complex organo-mineral. It plays a fundamental role in sustaining plant life. Nimki's work prompts us to look again at the natural world, whether hidden beneath the pavement or in plain sight.

This installation is generously supported by the Royal Commission for the Exhibition of 1851.

* If you have any accessibility requirements please get in touch at learning@sculptors.org.uk or on 020 7373 8615 to let us know in advance. You can find out more about access at Dora House here: https://sculptors.org.uk/visit/plan-your-visit