A Workshop on Cultivation, Care, and Ecological Grief

Join Michelle Teran for an early morning gathering that weaves together practical skills in regenerative agriculture with collective reflection on our changing world. Starting just before sunrise, this workshop is the first in a four-part series focused on growing, fermentation, and care.

What You'll Do

This session centers on creating Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ), a natural liquid fertilizer made by fermenting fast-growing plants with sugar. Participants will work with locally harvested plants, soil microorganisms, and rainwater to produce this sustainable soil amendment. More than just gardening—this is an invitation to mourn while building futures, as Michelle Teran describes her artistic and research practice.

Why It Matters

The workshop emerges from years of practice-based experimentation at community gardens, exploring how acts of cultivation become tools for reflection and care. Participants will engage with materials, learn hands-on techniques, and create space to name ecological grief—the emotions that arise when we sit closely with damaged and changing environments.

For Whom

Ideal for those interested in natural farming, urban gardening, cultural work around nature, or community support work. All ages welcome, though the program is designed for youth and adults.

Series Context

This April gathering launches a full series continuing through October, each session building on fermentation and composting methods. The insights developed will be documented as "soft scores"—flexible guidelines for collective action responsive to people, plants, and more-than-human participants.

Language: English is primary; community-facilitated German translation available.

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