Kristel Gotthold

Kristel’s journey from city life in Belgium to homesteading in Central Alberta is a story of resilience, creativity, and a deep love for nature. After trading the bustling streets of Calgary for the simplicity of a tiny home on the prairies over a decade ago, Kristel set out to grow her dream life, literally. Now, as co-owner of Prairie Hardy Nursery, an artisan fruit and nut tree nursery in Alberta, she’s helping others bring their backyard dreams to life.
With 12 years of homesteading experience and nearly a decade in the nursery business, Kristel has become an expert in growing food forests that thrive in Alberta’s challenging climate. Her passion lies in empowering women to create abundance, whether it’s transforming an urban backyard or an acreage into a thriving oasis of fresh fruit, nuts, and food sovereignty.
At this year’s festival, Kristel will share her insights and practical tips for cultivating a prairie-hardy food forest, showing you how to turn soil and seeds into nourishment and connection for your family. Let’s grow something amazing together!

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Grow Your Abundance: Learn How to Plant a Food Forest (Urban or Rural)

In this interactive workshop, attendees will learn how to design, plant, and nurture their own food forest, whether in an urban backyard or on a larger rural property. You’ll discover the fundamentals of food forest creation, from choosing the right plants to creating a self-sustaining ecosystem that provides fresh fruits, nuts, and herbs for you and your loved ones.

Kristel will share practical tips on working with Alberta’s challenging prairie climate, along with insights into building food sovereignty and sustainable living. Yes, you can grow walnuts, hazelnuts, plums, apricots, pears, and more right here on the prairies!

This workshop is perfect for anyone looking to empower themselves with the knowledge to grow their own abundance, reduce their reliance on grocery stores, and create a thriving, resilient garden. Join us to learn how to transform your space into a bountiful, health-focused food forest!