Irvine Blog - Posts from Local Experts

The Orange County Great Park is getting back to its roots. 

Long before the El Toro Marine Base hosted its squadron of fighter jets, this vast acreage was the most valuable growing field on the Irvine Ranch.

At one time, James H. Irvine could boast that he had the "largest privately held bean field in the world," supplying the troops in World War I with the protein rich food.

Today, thanks to the OC Park's Farm and Food Lab,  things are growing again on James Irvine's old bean field.

Here the public can learn about sustainable farming and ways they can improve their own backyard gardens. Plus, vegetables grown in the Farm and Food Lab are donated to local food banks like Second Harvest and the Orange County Food Bank.

This Fall, The OC Great Park will host Gardening Workshops that are free to the public. 

Saturday, October 27th 10 - 11am

"Garden of Eatin'"

Kay Havens, UCCE Master Gardener of Orange County

One of the benefits of living in a Mediterranean climate is year-round produce grown in your own garden! Learn what to plant and how to incorporate edibles into your gardening repertoire. Discover roots, shoots and fruits to liven up your plate, plus bountiful berries, fresh herbs and healthy greens.

Saturday, November 3rd 10-11am

"Colorful Flower Baskets for the Cool Season"

Kathy Moine, Green Thumb Nursery, Advanced Certified Nursery Professional

Banish the winter blahs! Your garden landscape and home decor will thank you. Learn how to make your garden an oasis of color and your home  floral retreat. Discover which annuals and perennials to grow and how to incorporate them to create a beautiful, bountiful basket of cool season color.

Of course, if you prefer to have other people do the gardening for you... 

The OC Great Park Farmers Market is open every Sunday from 10am - 2pm.

For more information, call (949) 724 - 7420.

OC Great Park Hours and Directions