Transitioning to an Organic Garden
About this Event
Did you know that Bedrock Gardens uses all organic practices in our gardens? Are you interested in growing a beautiful garden—without the use of harmful chemicals? Transitioning to an Organic Garden is designed to help you confidently switch to safer, more sustainable garden products.
Led by John Bochert and Susan Susan Engel of Eldredge Lumber and Hardware’s Organic Lawn & Garden Team, you’ll learn why synthetic fertilizers became common, how they impact your soil and food, and what organic alternatives can do instead. You'll explore slow-release, plant- and manure-based options that support soil health and reduce environmental impact. A variety of OMRI-listed products will be on display, with tips on how and when to use them for both edible and ornamental gardens. If you are ready to break up with synthetic fertilizers and curious what going organic entails, this is the perfect opportunity to get all your questions answered by the experts from Eldredge Lumber and Hardware!
Meet your Presenters
John Bochert.
Since 2013 John has been instrumental in realizing Scott Eldredge’s vision of an all-organic Lawn & Garden Dept. Today, John oversees 3 chemical-free departments and is often called upon to make presentations about organics to civic groups and educational organizations. In 2018 he addressed the 36th National Pesticide forum in Irvine, CA sponsored by Washington, DC-based Beyond Pesticides. He is a UMaine Master Gardener (1999) and an Accredited Organic Land Care Professional (2016). 2025 marks John’s 35th year in horticulture. John lives on his 2.6 acre estate in Cape Neddick, Maine with his wife, Liz and innumerable pets.
Susan Engel
Susan is the Assistant Store/Sales Manager at the Eldredge Lumber York ME Location. She became an Accredited Organic Land Care Professional in 2018 and completed her Master Gardener Program in 2019. Along with her spouse, Terry Martin, Susan grows vegetables & keeps layer hens at what they lovingly called "Honey Do Farm."
Tickets
Tickets are FREE for members (with member discount code) and $20 for non-members which includes a full day pass to the gardens.
Cancellation Policy: If you are unable to attend, please let us know 48 hours in advance of the class start time in order to receive a refund. Note that Eventbrite Fees are non-refundable.
Weather Related Cancellations: We will assess the weather the morning of the workshop and send a notification to all attendees if extreme or severe weather is forecast.
Membership
Are you excited about the offerings at Bedrock Gardens this season? Consider becoming a member to receive discounts on all of our programs (excluding Fairy and Hobbit House Festival) and other great perks. Check our webpage for details and to sign up. www.bedrockgardens.org/memberships.html
As a member, you receive free admission to the Gardens during the regular season, May through October. Once you sign up, you will receive an email with our member discount code that can be applied immediately.
Special thanks to our 2025 Business Partner, Eldredge Lumber and Hardware
Eldredge Lumber & Hardware is a community-minded, family-owned company that has been serving Southern Maine and beyond since 1937. With deep local roots and a legacy of giving back, Eldredge has grown from a small York Beach sawmill into a regional leader in building supplies, garden products, and design services. Still run by third-generation owner Scott Eldredge, the company remains committed to personalized service, sustainability, and supporting the communities where their customers and employees live and work. Across multiple locations in Maine and New Hampshire, Eldredge’s team of over 120 dedicated staff continue to uphold the company’s long-standing tradition of service, integrity, and community connection. Find out more about their offerings at https://eldredgelumber.com/
| Ticket Information | Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Transitioning to an Organic Garden | USD 23 |
Get Tickets