Instructor: Steve Koontz

Biography: Over 20 years ago, Steve received a free packet of gourd seeds and planted them in a small patch of ground in the front of his house. Not only did the seeds sprout, but the gourd plants took over the driveway and wound themselves into the screen door. That was when his passion for gardening first took root.In 2012, he moved into soil-less gardening with a Tower Garden - an aeroponic gardening system that works well indoors and out and he discovered more about the unique processes behind successfully growing edibles indoors. Since then, he's helped schools in Indiana and across the country purchase Tower Gardens and has trained teachers on how to effectively use them in their classrooms. Steve became a Master Gardener in 2015 and began specializing in indoor gardening, which includes potted plants as well as edibles. For several years, Steve taught the indoor gardening class for the Master Gardener Intern class. Steve owns and operates Keep It Watered, a business that specializes in indoor gardening. He and his wife, Christine, have two grown children and live in northern Indiana.

Classes by this instructor

Free Houseplants through Propagation

Grow new plants from your existing ones using techniques like cutting, division, and offsets. Witness live demonstrations of propagation methods, receive tips for identifying which plants can be propagated, and learn how supplemental lighting can keep plants thriving.
Monday, February 8, 2027, Doermer School of Business Bldg, Room 320

Grow Lettuce in Your Living Room!

Don't let winter stop your green thumb! Learn how to grow fresh veggies, herbs, and microgreens indoors - even when it's snowing outside.
Tuesday, November 10, 2026, Modular Classroom Bldg Rm 143 - Enter from St. Joe Rd. Look for Lot 16 or Parking Garage 3 (P3).

Growing Houseplants 101

This one-session course introduces the fundamentals of successful houseplant care, including choosing plants that fit your lifestyle, proper watering, supplemental lighting, and the impact of temperature and humidity. You'll also learn about soil selection, fertilization, pest prevention, and how to revive struggling plants. During this hands-on class, you'll pot a plant to take home while learning proper techniques. Ideal for beginners, this course provides a strong foundation for healthy indoor gardening.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026, Modular Classroom Bldg Rm 143 - Enter from St. Joe Rd. Look for Lot 16 or Parking Garage 3 (P3).
Monday, February 8, 2027, Doermer School of Business Bldg, Room 320

Growing Plants from Seed

Get a head start on spring by learning how to grow strong vegetable and flower seedlings from seeds. You'll learn planting techniques, the best lighting for healthy growth, and how to prepare your seedlings for outdoor planting.
Monday, February 22, 2027, Doermer School of Business Bldg, Room 320

Succulents Made Simple - NEW!

Despite the popular belief that "you can't kill a cactus," many plant owners have learned otherwise - including your instructor, Steve. This course covers the essentials of succulent care, including lighting, watering, soil composition, container selection, propagation, and pest management. Whether you're a beginner or looking to deepen your knowledge, you'll gain practical tips to help your succulents not just survive but thrive.
Tuesday, November 17, 2026, Modular Classroom Bldg Rm 143 - Enter from St. Joe Rd. Look for Lot 16 or Parking Garage 3 (P3).
Monday, February 22, 2027, Doermer School of Business Bldg, Room 320