From Gardens to the Spa:
Harvesting Luffa in the Lowcountry
Date: March 13, 2026
Time: 9:45-11:00 am
Place: Oyster Catcher Community Center
The Seabrook island Garden Club’s next meeting is on Friday, March 13, from 9:45 – 11:00 am. Our featured speaker is Brian Wheat, BA, EdM, a professor of horticulture at Trident Technical College and the founder of Common Joy, a family-run farm specializing in sustainably grown luffa gourd sponges in Charleston, SC.
Before entering agriculture, Brian spent nearly a decade teaching middle school science and high school biology, later building a career in both the public and private sectors as an agribusiness professional with a focus on regenerative farming practices. Along the way, he has provided agribusiness consulting and training to farmers, entrepreneurs, and organizations working to strengthen local food systems.You can find him on Instagram at @brianbuckwheat and @commonjoyluffa.
Common Joy is one of only a few commercial luffa farms in the country and is based right here in Charleston on Johns Island. At the March meeting, we will explore best practices for growing and processing luffa here in the Lowcountry and follow the crop from seed to sponge. Participants will receive a luffa and seed to grow their own! Members are free, guests are asked for a $5 donation.
-Submitted by the Seabrook Island Garden Club