Researching gardening as a science project for children in north Louisiana. Explore the options for ensuring that the garden is sustainable and can be continued beyond our class assignment.
2. Create a Gardening plan of action of planting items for the gardens.
3. Find seeds to grow that will flourish and be available for the 4 seasons.
4. Secure a time that is best for working with the land to prepare for the garden.
5. Read on gardening tips for new gardeners, especially children, youth and families.
6. Determine which day and time each week, you will work with and in the garden prior to Founders Day ( Nov. 1, 2023) and throughout the semester. Submit your plan of action below and submit it by September 1, 2023.
7. Prepare a plan of action beyond the end of the semester for future classes to continue to work in the garden.
You are to also participate in various activities during Founders Week, this week and document your involvement by writing an electronic presentation in either video, graphic or photography format documenting your WHY for GSU?
Gardening Plan of Action:
1. Conduct research on the types of plants that grow well in north Louisiana throughout the four seasons. Consider factors such as climate, soil type, and sunlight requirements.
2. Choose a variety of plants that can be grown successfully in each season. For example, in spring and summer, consider planting tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and herbs. In fall and winter, focus on cool-season vegetables like lettuce, carrots, and broccoli.
3. Source high-quality seeds from local nurseries, seed banks, or online suppliers. Look for organic and heirloom varieties to promote biodiversity and sustainability.
4. Determine the best time to start planting each type of seed, considering the average date of the last frost in north Louisiana. Consult gardening resources or local experts for specific planting guidelines.
5. Prepare the garden space by removing any weeds or debris, loosening the soil, and adding organic matter like compost or mulch to improve soil fertility.
6. Create a schedule for regular maintenance tasks such as watering, weeding, and pest control. Involve the children and their families in these activities to promote their ongoing engagement in the garden.
7. Consider establishing a composting system within the garden to recycle organic waste and provide nutrient-rich compost for the plants.
8. Encourage children and families to keep a gardening journal to document their observations, successes, and challenges. This will help them learn from their experiences and make improvements in future seasons.
Plan of Action Beyond the Semester:
1. Establish a system for regular garden maintenance during school breaks and summer vacations. This can involve recruiting volunteers from the community, partnering with local organizations, or involving future classes in the upkeep.
2. Create a long-term plan for garden expansion and improvement. This can include adding new beds, installing irrigation systems, or introducing additional sustainable practices like rainwater harvesting.
3. Develop partnerships with local farmers, gardeners, or agricultural extension offices to provide ongoing support, resources, and mentorship to the garden project.
4. Encourage the involvement of the wider community by hosting events like farmers' markets, workshops, or educational programs on sustainable gardening practices.
Electronic Presentation for Founder's Week:
Create a video, graphic, or photography presentation showcasing the garden project and its impact on the children, youth, and families involved. Include the following elements in your presentation:
1. Introduction: Explain the purpose and goals of the garden project, emphasizing its importance for the children's education, health, and connection to nature.
2. Documentation of Activities: Capture images or footage of the children and their families actively engaged in gardening tasks such as planting, watering, harvesting, and caring for plants. Highlight their enthusiasm and sense of accomplishment.
3. Benefits of Gardening: Interview children, parents, and community members about the benefits they have experienced from participating in the garden project. This can include improved nutrition, increased physical activity, enhanced environmental awareness, and the development of important life skills.
4. Impact on the Community: Showcasing any community events or initiatives initiated by the garden project, such as workshops, educational programs, or partnerships with local organizations.
5. Future Plans: Share the long-term vision for the garden project and how it will continue to benefit future classes and the wider community. Emphasize the importance of sustainability and ongoing support.
6. Conclusion: Summarize the impact of the garden project, emphasizing how it aligns with the values and mission of GSU. Explain the connection between the garden project and the WHY for GSU, highlighting the university's commitment to community engagement, sustainable practices, and holistic education.
Step-by-step plan for ensuring a sustainable garden in north Louisiana:
1. Research sustainable gardening practices: Begin by researching sustainable gardening techniques suitable for the climate and soil conditions of north Louisiana. Look for resources such as books, online articles, or local gardening experts who can provide guidance on sustainable practices like composting, water conservation, organic pest control, and companion planting.
2. Select suitable plants: Identify plants that are known to thrive in the north Louisiana region throughout the four seasons. Consider both annual and perennial plants that can provide continuous blooms, fruits, or vegetables throughout the year. Look for varieties that are disease-resistant and well-suited to the local climate and soil conditions.
3. Source quality seeds: Find reputable sources for high-quality seeds that are suitable for the chosen plants. Look for local plant nurseries, seed catalogs, or online retailers that specialize in heirloom or organic seeds. Ensure that the selected seeds are known to perform well in the local climate and have a good germination rate.
4. Prepare the garden area: Assess the selected garden site and prepare the land accordingly. Take into account factors such as sunlight exposure, drainage, and soil quality. Clear any weeds or debris from the area and amend the soil if needed, using organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure.
5. Educate yourself and the participants: Read and provide educational materials on gardening basics, especially targeted towards children, youth, and families. Look for age-appropriate books, articles, or websites that cover the fundamentals of gardening, from soil preparation and planting to watering and maintenance. Encourage participants to attend workshops or gardening classes to enhance their knowledge.
6. Establish a routine: Determine a specific day and time each week when the participants will work in the garden. This consistent schedule will help ensure that the garden receives the necessary attention and maintenance it requires. Consider factors like weather conditions and availability of participants when selecting the best day and time.
7. Develop a plan for future classes: Create a detailed plan of action that outlines the tasks and responsibilities required to maintain the garden beyond the class assignment. Include instructions on watering, fertilizing, weeding, pest control, and other necessary tasks. Consider setting up a rotation system or volunteer program to involve future classes in the maintenance of the garden.
8. Document involvement during Founders Week: During the Founders Week activities, document your involvement by creating an electronic presentation in either video, graphic, or photography format. Share your experiences, showcase the progress of the garden, and explain the reasons behind your commitment to gardening at GSU. Highlight the educational benefits, environmental impact, and community engagement aspects of the project.
By following these steps, you can ensure the sustainability of the garden beyond the class assignment and leave a legacy for future classes to continue the gardening project.