Medicinal Plants
2026 Growing a Medicine Garden with Lottie Spady
Keep Growing Detroit is excited to announce the "Growing a Medicine Garden" series this August, led by acclaimed herbalist Lottie Spady. With her extensive background in herbalism and commitment to environmental and food justice, Lottie will guide participants through a transformative journey. This series will explore the resilience of backyard herbs, delve into the basics and beyond herbal infusions, demonstrate the art of crafting your own herbal medicine, and inspire the design of community-oriented herbal gardens. Each session is designed to empower participants with the knowledge and tools to bring the healing power of plants into their communities and homes.
Apply now to be part of this enriching experience that combines learning with community building. If selected, you will be contacted with further details.
Application Opens: May 20, 2026
Application Deadline: June 20 , 2026
Program Details
Join us for four immersive in person classes, where you'll gain hands-on experience!
The series is valued at over $350 per participant. We offer a sliding scale starting at $40 to ensure it is accessible to everyone. Your additional contributions help sustain this and other programs. Upon acceptance, payment instructions will be provided.
ELIGIBILITY
Must be a member of the Garden Resource Program gardening within Detroit, Highland Park, or Hamtramck
Should be actively involved in a community, school, or market garden
Demonstrated interest in establishing a medicinal herb bed
Committed to full participation in all classes
Able to pick up materials from the KGD farm. Delivery options available upon request
Enthusiastic about working with a diverse group of people and sharing learned skills with the community
ATTENDANCE COMMITMENT
Given the unique and condensed schedule of this year’s series, full attendance is crucial for a complete educational experience. Each class is carefully designed to build upon the previous session, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of medicinal gardening.
Please consider your availability to commit to all four sessions before applying, as consistent attendance will be a key factor in the selection process. This commitment is essential to maximize the benefits of the series for all participants.
SERIES OVERVIEW
Tuesday, August 18th, 6-8pm: Backyard Herbs: Inspiring Community Resilience
Tuesday, August 25th, 6-8pm: Herbalism 101: Exploring the World of Herbal Formulations
Tuesday, September 1st, 6-8:30pm: Backyard Apothecary: Crafting Herbal Medicine - Each participant will receive a tincture making kit
Tuesday, September 8th, 6-8:30pm: Empowering Green Spaces: Designing your Community Herbal Garden- Herb walk and plant pick up. Participants will receive essential supplies for starting their own medicinal herb garden, including plants and materials for making tinctures.
