Therapeutic Horticulture
Our horticulture programs are a great way for participants of all abilities and experiences to learn about farming and the growing world around us. By engaging in hands-on planting, maintenance, and harvesting activities, participants in our horticulture programs experience emotional healing, improved cognitive skills and improved balance, coordination, strength and stamina. They are able to hone skills as they help grow thousands of pounds of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers each year, which are used in farm-to-table cooking classes and events and donated to hunger relief efforts throughout the Rochester area.
All horticulture programs are offered to veterans at no charge.
Classes on the Farm
NEW IN 2025!
Farm Friends
Mondays, Wednesdays and Friday
9:00AM - 12:00PM
A new class designed for adults 18+ who want to grow their skills, connect with others, and learn in a hands-on, supportive environment. The Farm Friends program is an opportunity to engage in meaningful, nature-based learning while building friendships and exploring new interests.
Led by EquiCenter's trained staff, participants will:
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Grow together: Work as a team to cultivate food crops on our teaching farm, both in the field and the greenhouse.
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Explore seasonal activities: Get involved with projects like maple syrup production, food preservation, flower growing, and beekeeping.
Each week, students will enjoy a variety of themed learning activities, offering unique experiences every day. Through group work and hands-on projects, participants will not only develop practical skills but also enhance their social-emotional learning and connection with others.
The program is designed to be flexible and inclusive, with sensory-friendly spaces and activities that can be adapted to meet each participant’s needs. Whether new to gardening, farming, or working with animals—or looking to expand knowledge—Farm Friends is a perfect way to learn, grow, and enjoy the outdoors.
Who is this program for?
Adults 18+
Cost: $100 / day
Click here for more information
Veteran Farm + Wellness
Tuesdays in April - October
10:00am - 12:00pm
Get your hands dirty in this on-farm experience! Each week, you will learn as you work alongside our farm team to complete horticultural tasks that support our growing operations. New and experienced gardeners are welcome. As a bonus, you will have the opportunity to harvest produce to take home with you!
Who is this program for?
Group Class for Veterans Only
Cost: Veterans No Charge
Virtual Courses
Foundations of Growing
6-Part Virtual Class
Self-paced, online course
Cost: $50, FREE for veterans
Learn the basics of growing food at home at your own pace! This 6-part virtual class is pre-recorded, so you can follow along at any point throughout the growing season. Lessons focus on the life cycle of a home garden space from planning and planting to harvesting and preservation, making it a resource you'll want to reference all year long.
Contact Katie at knuber@equicenterny.org to register
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Farm & Garden Design
3-part Workshop Series
Self-paced, online course
Cost: $35, FREE for veterans
Learn how to select and set up your at-home growing space. This virtual workshop series includes 3 zoom video instruction seminars and access to EquiCenter's Farm & Garden design online course.
Contact Katie at knuber@equicenterny.org to register
Questions? Contact Katie Nuber at knuber@equicenterny.org
or call the Farm Office at (585)404-1079 for more information.