After a strategic review of Foundation priorities and resources, we have made the difficult decision to stop selling our Level 2 Certified Instructor course.
Our mission as well as our area of expertise for over 40 years has been teaching home gardeners how to grow food using the SFG method. Our books and Level 1 course support that mission. We believe they are the most effective way to introduce Square Foot Gardening to new gardeners.
We are reassessing our online Certified Instructor program in light of recent significant changes to the residential gardening industry. When Mel Bartholomew began teaching and certifying SFG instructors, he was a pioneer in building a network of garden coaches. Today, consumers can choose from a plethora of in-person and online experts to teach vegetable gardening.
It has been challenging to ensure our Level 2 Certified Instructor course buyers are thoroughly versed and able to confidently teach the specifics of the SFG method as well as answer a broad range of vegetable gardening questions from the public.
What will continue:
- We will continue selling our Level 1 Learn to Square Foot Garden online course.
- We will continue offering our “Find a Certified Instructor” tool on the SFGF website.
- We will continue offering CI resources on a password-protected portal on the SFGF website.
- We will continue hosting our private Facebook group for Certified Instructors.
- We will continue sending email bulletins to and sharing information with Certified Instructors.
What is the Square Foot Gardening Certified Instructor Program?
The Square Foot Gardening Certified Instructor (CI) Program is a 2-step program to educate interested gardeners in the Square Foot Method so that they can teach and educate others.
👣 The first step is to complete the Level 1 Introductory SFG Course, during which you’ll become familiar with the Square Foot Method, including the 10 Basics, 8 Steps, how to build boxes and grids, how to create Mel’s Mix™, and how to plant and maintain your SFG.
👣 The second and final step is the Level 2 Intermediate Certified Instructor Course, which culminates in your designation as a Certified Instructor.
Bundle Contents
This bundle unites Square Foot Gardening Beginner’s and Intermediate courses in to a discount package for you.
There are a few requirements you must meet and agree to before you purchase this course:
- You will need to build a Square Foot Garden and upload photos of your Square Foot Garden on the Certified Instructor application form to demonstrate your ability to create an official SFG according to the standard method using the box, grid, Mel’s Mix™, and correct plant spacing.
- You must read a copy of either the 2nd or 3rd edition Square Foot Gardening book to pass the module quizzes.
- Pass quizzes for both Levels 1 and 2 (you can take as many times as you need)
Once you become a Certified Instructor, you will receive resources for teaching others to Square Foot Gardening, including PowerPoint templates, handouts for printing, banner files, business cards, SFG apparel, and more!
Discount for Teachers and Military Veterans
The Square Foot Gardening Foundation gives 20% off discount on all SFG courses for all teachers, military veterans (with a valid ID provided) and senior citizens (with AARP card provided).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it a self-paced course?
Yes. Once you are enrolled in the course, you can start learning at your own pace.
How long do I have access to the purchased courses?
You will get lifetime access. When you purchase the courses, regardless of price, you will receive any updates to the courses as they are updated.
Do you have a list of materials that I will need for this course?
We don't have a list of required products to build the Square Foot Garden, because it is very individual. Some people prefer building SFG beds from recycled materials, some people buy wood to build the SFG bed. In the course, we give basic recommendations and a list of materials that anyone can use to build the SFG bed.
Also, you will need the soil components to create your Mel's Mix: vermiculite, compost and peat moss. We explain in the course how to do it.
Do you offer discounts?
Yes, we offer 20% off discount on all SFG courses for all teachers, military veterans (with a valid ID provided) and senior citizens (with AARP card provided). Please apply here.
Will I become an SFG Certified Instructor if I buy this course bundle?
In order to become an SFG Certified Instructor it is not enough just to purchase this course bundle. You will need to pass quizzes for both Levels 1 and 2 (you can take as many times as you need). Then you will need to build a Square Foot Garden and upload photos of your Square Foot Garden on the Certified Instructor application form to demonstrate your ability to create an official SFG according to the standard method using the box, grid, Mel’s Mix™, and correct plant spacing.