GARDENING

As we get closer to the winter solstice, we have been enjoying some cooler weather tasks in the garden.

Students have been busy propagating a range of endemic plants into tubestock, which are growing well in the nursery in preparation to plant out once the warmer months arrive.

We have constructed nature journals to help us observe and record what's happening in the garden.

Our compost bins have had a refresh with newly painted lids in a traffic light system to help students understand which bins are active / resting: green for go, red for stop, and brown for carbon, which is added to the active bins. We have sifted our compost that has been resting and is ready to be added to the garden.

Our winter crops are growing well - broad beans, peas, rainbow charr and a range of winter greens. 

This week, we are exploring the fascinating world of fungi! As budding mycologists, we are learning about how fungi release a digestive enzyme which helps to break down dead plant matter, as nature's way of composting. We explored how spores travel both into the atmosphere to help clouds to form, and land on the earth to form mycelial networks underground. Using special magnification tools (loupes) we have observed a range of specimens up close and added sketches to our nature journals.

This weekend please come along to the working bee: 10am - 2pm, drop in anytime - kids are welcome! Please BYO gloves and snacks

If you would like to help in the garden, please reach out to Emily via the office