Core College
Two-Day Course in Organic Medicinal Herb Growing
Discover the art and science of growing medicinal plants organically
Register NowCourse Overview
This two-day immersive course is perfect for anyone who wants to explore how to cultivate, care for, and use medicinal herbs. The course will take place in Core College Medicinal Herb Gardens in Castlecomer, County Kilkenny.
Through a blend of hands-on garden practice and a guided tour of the Core College dispensary, you will gain both practical skills and deeper insight into the therapeutic use of medicinal herbs.
Thursday and Friday, 25th and 26th of September 2025
Register Now!Course Highlights
On the first day, you will learn how to prepare the ground for healthy growth. We will cover what 'organic' really means in practice, the importance of living soil, and simple methods of composting and mulching. Students will explore how to design a garden that supports medicinal plants and gain confidence in propagation techniques such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
During day two, students will discover the care of established herbs and seasonal approaches to harvesting. Profiles of well-known medicinal herbs will be shared, alongside an introduction to how these plants are used in herbal medicine. A highlight of the day is a tour of the Core College dispensary. Core College offers courses in medicinal herbalism, from one to four years in duration.
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Suitable For
This course is open to beginners, home gardeners, and herbal enthusiasts alike. Whether you want to start your first herb garden, grow plants more sustainably, or learn how to use herbs in everyday life, you will find it a supportive and inspiring introduction.
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Learning Highlights
By the end of the two days, you will understand the principles of organic herb growing, know how to plan and tend a small medicinal garden, and feel confident in harvesting and preserving plants for future use. You will also gain insight into how herbalists use medicinal plants to support health and well-being..

Teachers

Klaus Laitenberger
The author of three gardening books and a regular contributor to Irish Garden magazine, was central to the creation of the Core College gardens. He is passionate about organic growing and maintaining soil health, and is well known in Ireland as a passionate teacher.

Heiko Klee
A horticulturist with over a decade of experience, Heiko has spent the past seven years focusing on medicinal herb cultivation in Ireland. He leads the development of the College’s medicinal herb growing project, with a strong focus on organic methods suited to the Irish climate.

Helen Begadon
Director of Core College for over 25 years, Helen is dedicated to preserving Ireland’s tradition of medicinal herbalism and to providing excellence in the education of professional herbalists.
Course Fee
Course fees are €290. However, if you are employed or self-employed and living in the Republic of Ireland, you will receive 40% funding through the National Organic Training Skillnet. That means your fee is reduced to just €174.
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