Where in Philadelphia can I connect with an Herbalist who also gardens so I can learn how to make natural products?
I'd also like to learn how to preserve bounty from the garden.
Answer
We asked Philadelphia herbalist Marisia Robinson of Seed Weed Reap to answer this question and here is her expert advice:
"All of the activities you mentioned are amazing ways to be productive and connect with the community. The Building Your Home Apothecary program @ Bartam's Gardens in South West Philadelphia is a 9-month introduction to herbalism and gardening. Applications for the 2025 season are now open for their next cohort of classes. You can inquire about their program using this email: buildingyourhomeapothecary@gmail.com
Awbury Arboretum in Mt. Airy has regular herbalism programming. You can find information about the Many Hands Community Apothecary [HERE]
I'll also be running 2 multi-week free programs with FDR Park: the early spring classes will be focused on growing and foraging medicinal herbs, and another session in late summer is focused on making tinctures and other herbal remedies.
As far as preserving food, Ball canning is one of the most trusted resources. You could start with their "Back to Basics" book [HERE].
I can recommend some of my favorite YouTube channels:
Urban Homesteading: Becoming a Farmgirl and Yellow Door Urban Homestead
General Gardening: Roots and Refuge (check out their older videos) and The Gardening Channel With James Prigioni
Herbalism: The Honeystead and anything with Rosemary Gladstar"
Have more questions on herbalism? Marisia can be reached via email at seedweedreap@gmail.com and/or Instagram.