Planting Afternoon!

Three years ago Findon Primary School and La Trobe University started a Bush Food Garden  together at the primary school. Planted in the garden were indigenous plants. Many early years students use this space as a place to play and the vegetation has grown well.

On Monday the 3rd of November a group of students volunteered to tidy up and plant new plants in this garden. With the help of a Planet Saver leader the team of students planted over 50 plants. All weeds were removed, holes dug, plants watered and tree guard put up for the plants in danger of being stepped on. With leftover time, the team also spread new mulch over this area.

As most of the team were not a part of the Planet Savers group, a new interest was sparked and many children are now excited to help in upcoming planting projects around the school. As these plants are new, all team members expressed interest in checking on the garden throughout the term so the garden can have the best chance to flourish.

 As well as showing interest and care in planting and looking after the flora of the school, many children discussed making their own garden at home after learning how to plant. It was great to see the boys and girls working collaboratively and helping each other to use new tools. During the activity many students expressed how happy they were that they decided to attend school that day as many students were away due to Melbourne Cup weekend.

The children gained a valuable learning experience by enquiring about types of plants that like shade and those that like sun. They also used informal measurements of water to 'kick start' the growth of the newly planted. Many were surprised at how much water was required and were concerned it may be too much! Extending the sustainable program to children outside of the Planet Savers team has promoted caring for flora to the wider school.