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Melissa Palamar

Learn all the fundamental basics to become an expert level gardener. Dive into plant biology and soil sciences. Understand pruning methods and the different styles of gardening. Learn about shade gardens, pollinator gardens and how to maintain a deer-resistant garden. Discover how planning, maintenance, and good watering habits help you to achieve the professional look without the high cost.

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What's inside

Learning objective

Everything about outdoor gardening

Syllabus

Fundamentals of Outdoor Gardening
Plant Biology
Annuals & Biennials
Perennials
Read more
Trees & Shrubs
Soil Sun & Water
Pests & Disease
Shade Gardens
Pollinator Gardens
Deer Resistant Gardens
In-Ground vs Raised Beds
Pruning
Seasonal Tasks

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Appeals to beginning gardeners who want to plan, maintain, and water their gardens in a cost-effective way to achieve a professional look
Offers a comprehensive understanding of plant biology, soil science, and various gardening styles
Covers practical aspects of gardening, such as pruning, seasonal tasks, and creating different types of gardens
Taught by Melissa Palamar, who is recognized for her expertise in horticulture

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Outdoor Gardening with these activities:
Organize Your Course Materials
Improve your organization and retention by compiling and reviewing your course materials.
Show steps
  • Gather all your notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams.
  • Create folders or notebooks to organize the materials by topic.
  • Review the materials regularly to reinforce your understanding.
Plant Identification Practice
Sharpen your ability to identify and distinguish between different plant species.
Browse courses on Trees
Show steps
  • Download a plant identification app.
  • Take photos of plants you encounter and use the app to identify them.
  • Visit a botanical garden or arboretum to observe and learn about different species.
Review an Introduction to Botany Book
Ground yourself in the foundational concepts of plant biology as they relate to this course.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on plant anatomy, morphology, and physiology.
  • Take notes on the key concepts and definitions.
  • Review your notes regularly to reinforce your understanding.
Four other activities
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Create a Raised Bed Garden
Solidify your understanding of raised bed gardening techniques and their benefits.
Browse courses on Raised Bed Gardening
Show steps
  • Watch tutorials on raised bed construction and soil preparation.
  • Follow the steps to build your own raised bed.
  • Fill the bed with the appropriate soil mix.
Start a Compost Bin
Enhance your understanding of soil health and sustainability by starting a compost bin.
Browse courses on Composting
Show steps
  • Choose a suitable location and gather necessary materials.
  • Layer brown and green materials according to the recommended ratio.
  • Turn the compost regularly to aerate it and speed up decomposition.
  • Use the finished compost to enrich your garden soil.
Write a Blog Post on a Gardening Topic
Develop your communication and critical thinking skills by sharing your knowledge through a blog post.
Show steps
  • Choose a topic that you are knowledgeable about and passionate about.
  • Research your topic thoroughly.
  • Write a well-structured and informative blog post.
  • Share your blog post on social media or other platforms.
Attend a Local Gardening Workshop
Connect with other gardeners, learn new techniques, and get hands-on experience in a workshop setting.
Show steps
  • Find a local gardening workshop that aligns with your interests.
  • Register for the workshop and prepare any necessary materials.
  • Attend the workshop and actively participate in the activities.
  • Follow up on any recommendations or resources provided by the instructors.

Career center

Learners who complete Outdoor Gardening will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Landscape Architect
Landscape Architects design and plan outdoor spaces, including gardens, parks, and other public areas. They work with clients to develop a vision for the space and then create a plan that meets their needs. This course may be useful to this career path as it provides a foundation in the fundamentals of gardening, as well as the specialized knowledge required in the field.
Garden Designer
Garden Designers plan and design gardens for residential and commercial property owners. This includes recommending plants and materials, and overseeing the installation of the garden. This course may be useful to this career path as it provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of gardening. Additionally, as this course covers a wide range of gardening styles, students are able to specialize their skills and knowledge.
Park Ranger
Park Rangers protect and manage natural resources in parks and other public lands. They work to ensure that these areas are safe and accessible for visitors, and to protect the plants and animals that live there. This course may be useful to this career path as it provides a foundation in the fundamentals of gardening, as well as the specialized knowledge required in the field.
Plant Pathologist
Plant Pathologists study the diseases that affect plants. They work to develop and implement strategies to prevent and control these diseases. This course may be useful to this career path as it provides a foundation in the fundamentals of gardening, as well as the specialized knowledge required in the field.
Arborist
Arborists care for trees in a variety of settings, including residential, commercial, and public spaces. They assess the health of trees, diagnose problems, and provide treatment. This course may be useful to this career path as it provides a foundation in the fundamentals of gardening, as well as the specialized knowledge required in the field.
Crop Scientist
Crop Scientists study the production of crops. They work to develop new and improved crops, and to improve the efficiency of crop production. This course may be useful to this career path as it provides a foundation in the fundamentals of gardening, as well as the specialized knowledge required in the field.
Urban Forester
Urban Foresters manage trees in urban areas. This includes planting, care, and removal of trees. They work with city planners and other stakeholders to develop and implement urban forestry plans. This course may be useful to this career path as it provides a foundation in the fundamentals of gardening, as well as the specialized knowledge required in the field.
Floral Designer
Floral Designers create floral arrangements for a variety of occasions, including weddings, funerals, and parties. They may also work in a retail setting, such as a flower shop or garden center. This course may be useful to this career path as it provides a good foundation in the fundamentals of gardening, as well as the specialized knowledge required in the field.
Botanist
Botanists study plants, including their structure, function, and genetics. They work in a variety of settings, including universities, government agencies, and private companies. This course may be useful to this career path as it provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of gardening.
Greenhouse Manager
Greenhouse Managers oversee the daily operations of a greenhouse. This includes the growing, care, and sale of plants. They supervise staff and manage the greenhouse budget. This course may be useful to this career path as it provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed for the field. It also covers specialized topics, such as shade gardens and pollinator gardens, which can help professionals stand out in this competitive field.
Plant Geneticist
Plant Geneticists study the genetics of plants. They work to improve the quality and yield of crops, and to develop new plant varieties. This course may be useful to this career path as it provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of gardening.
Horticulturist
Horticulturists use their knowledge of plants to care for, improve, and cultivate plants. They are experts in the plant sciences and can tell you anything you need to know about the growth of a plant. These professionals work in a number of different settings that include botanical gardens, greenhouses, private gardens, and more. This course may be useful to this career path as it provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed for the field.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists study the environment and its interactions with humans. They work to solve environmental problems and to protect the environment. This course may be useful to this career path as it provides a foundation in the fundamentals of gardening, as well as the specialized knowledge required in the field.
Nursery Manager
Nursery Managers oversee the daily operations of a nursery. This includes the growing, care, and sale of plants. They supervise staff and manage the nursery budget. This course may be useful to this career path as it provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed for the field.
Landscape Designer
Landscape Designers plan the development of outdoor spaces. They devise plans for these areas for residential and commercial property owners. This often includes the construction of gardens. They also oversee the development of these areas and work with additional members of a design team, including architects and civil engineers. This course may be useful to this career path as it dives into plant biology and soil sciences. It also discusses different styles of gardening, such as shade gardens and pollinator gardens. In addition, it covers landscape design topics such as pruning methods and maintenance.

Reading list

We've selected 13 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Outdoor Gardening.
Comprehensive guide to permaculture. It covers everything from soil preparation to pest control to harvesting your crops.
This novel tells the story of a group of people who come together to save a forest. It powerful and moving story that explores the themes of nature, conservation, and community.
Teaches you how to create a food forest in your own backyard. It covers topics such as plant selection, planting design, and pest control.
Teaches you how to grow vegetables in all four seasons. It includes tips on how to extend your growing season and protect your plants from the elements.
Fascinating look at the world of fungi. It explores the latest research on the role of fungi in the natural world and their importance to human health.
Teaches you how to grow vegetables in a sustainable way. It covers topics such as composting, crop rotation, and pest control.
Great starting point for beginners who want to learn the basics of gardening. It covers everything from planning your garden to planting, watering, and fertilizing your plants.
Passionate defense of real food. It great read for anyone who is interested in learning more about how to eat healthy and sustainably.
Beautiful and inspiring memoir about the author's relationship with the natural world. It must-read for anyone who loves nature and wants to learn more about the interconnectedness of all things.
Fascinating look at the world of plants. It explores the latest research on plant communication, intelligence, and healing abilities.
Fascinating look at the history and science of our favorite fruits and vegetables. It great read for anyone who is interested in learning more about the food we eat.
This novel tells the story of a group of people who come together to create a community garden. It heartwarming story that explores the themes of community, sustainability, and hope.

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