Seed Starting at Wiscasset Elementary Submitted by Becky Hallowell
The Garden Club of Wiscasset recently worked fourth-grade students at Wiscasset Elementary School to plant the first seeds for the school’s new square foot garden. The students, guided by local gardening expert Annaliese Incháurregui, have been learning about companion plants and the best timing for harvesting a variety of vegetables, all while putting their planning skills to work.
This exciting project began when the fourth-grade class designed the layout of the garden, carefully selecting the vegetables that would thrive together in the small, yet productive space. Once the seeds were selected, fourth graders invited the rest of the school to start the seeds for the square foot garden. With the support of the Garden Club, all Wiscasset Elementary School students have now had the opportunity to get their hands dirty, planting the seeds that will grow into a bounty of fresh produce.
The square foot garden, a space-efficient gardening method that maximizes yield, will soon be in full bloom, providing the students with fresh produce like tomatoes, lettuce, carrots, and more. The project not only promotes healthy eating but also encourages environmental stewardship and teamwork. All students and their families are invited to visit the garden throughout the summer to sample the vegetables.
Photo credit: Becky Hallowell
Wren Fairfield and Macen Gay plant seedlings with the guidance of Garden Club member, Liz Gross.