Soil Health and Compost Practicum (Part 2 of 2)

August 5, 2023


Cornell Cooperative Extension's Makela Elvy, Partnerships for Parks, and NYC Parks GreenThumb bring you a two-part learning series on soil vitality and its impact on plants. Plant health is directly linked to the health of the soil it's growing in. If we take care of the soil, the soil will take care of our plants and crops.

This hands-on workshop will build on our knowledge of soil health basics and dive into practical ways of assessing and improving soil health. We will look at an example of a thriving garden compost system and see how compost amendments affect different soil types. Prepare to get your hands dirty! 

A Cantonese interpreter will be available at this workshop.

Location:
Rodale Pleasant Park Community Garden
437 East 114th Street
Train: 4/6 to 116 St
Bus: M15 to 1 Av/E 113 St 

This event is FREE! Pre-registration is not required.

Webinar: Biochar Applications on Urban Farms

June 10, 2026
12:00 noon - 1:00 PM

Hear from Deborah Aller, Cornell, about biochar applications on urban farms and its ability to act as a tool for soil health and climate mitigation. We will also be discussing the mission behind New York Center for Organics Recycling and Education (NYCORE).

Community Gardens Soil Testing Program Accepting Applications

Soil testing supports the growth and expansion of community gardens by protecting the health and safety of the food produced in these gardens. CCE Harvest NY, in partnership with the NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets (AGM) and the Cornell Soil Health Lab, is offering eligible, food-producing gardens in New York State the opportunity to send soil samples for testing without charge.

The soil test will analyze samples for heavy metals and nutrient levels. Test results help gardeners make appropriate plans to produce high quality fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Technical support and education for participating growers will be available from the CCE Harvest New York team. Learn more about the 2026 Community Gardens Soil Testing Program.