Cool-Season Gardening - Workshop and Dinner at the Mindful Farmer Homestead

September 27, 2025
Conway, Arkansas (Address to be emailed upon confirmation)
6 PM – 9 PM
Limited participants (12 guests)

Join us for a hands-on cool-season gardening workshop at the Mindful Farmer homestead in Conway, Arkansas. The fire will be burning and string lights twinkling as we discuss the techniques and strategies for growing abundant cool-season flowers and vegetables under the stars. Dinner is provided as small courses interspersed throughout the experience. Food and drinks are prepared in-house by Sean and Melanie, owners of Mindful Farmer, and made with local ingredients from the garden and local farms. We will stroll the garden and practise hands-on techniques of seeding, weed management, and even root crop storage. 

Timeline of the Evening

6:00 PM – Arrival & Welcome
Guests arrive under glowing string lights. Welcome drink + light appetizers.
Course 1 served: Fresh bread with spreads, cheese, crudite, and charcuterie.

6:20 PM – Session 1: Garden Planning, Timing, & Soil Prep
Learn how to design a fall/spring garden, start seeds, and prep the soil.
Course 2 served: Fresh garden salad with seasonal toppings.

6:45 PM – Session 2: Planting & Cultivation
Hands-on demo: direct-seeding & transplanting techniques.
Course 3 served: Seasonal soup or small pasta dish.

7:15 PM – Session 3: Irrigation & Pest Management
Practical tips for watering systems, row covers, and organic pest control.
Course 4 served: Grilled garden vegetables, local chicken, and grass-fed beef.

7:45 PM – Session 4: Harvest & Preservation
How to maximize yields, extend storage, and preserve harvests (fermenting, canning, cold storage).

8:30 PM – Closing Discussion & Q&A
Wrap-up under the lights, Q&A, and community connection.
Course 5 served: Desserts with coffee/tea 

9:00 PM – Farewell
Guests head home with new knowledge, full stomachs, and take-home resources to guide their own cool-season gardens.

What to Bring:

• Comfortable clothes for an outdoor dinner. 
• Your own wine and beer of your choice, if desired (stemware provided). 
• I will have a workbook and pens if you'd like to take notes throughout the evening. 

This event is capped, so reserve your spot early. We'll send full location details once you're registered.