Earth Day Gardening Project

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Families who care about being good stewards of the Earth came to school on Saturday,

April 5, following a community clean-up.  Participants planted native plants such as zinnias and butterfly weed to attract butterflies.  They also weeded the garden, turned the compost, trimmed the rose bushes, spread mulch, and watered the garden.  We were able to purchase gardening soil, mulch, and plants with a grant from Keep Pearland Beautiful.

Keep Pearland Beautiful is a non-profit environmental organization affiliated with Keep Texas Beautiful, Inc. and Keep America Beautiful, Inc.

Results:

• Families came to the school garden to work from 9:45-11:15.  There were 10 families with 10 adults + 12 kids for a total of 22. 
• Total hours:  22 x 1.5 = 33 hours
• Cost $250 for plants, soil, and mulch.
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How can your school organize a Gardening Day project?

1. 1. Plan a day for families to come to school on a Saturday.
2. 2. Recruit a Master Gardener for expertise on types of plants and garden design.  Native plants are better than exotic plants.
3. 3. Apply for a grant to cover the cost of gardening materials or ask for donations.
4. 4. Send out a flyer with information about the Earth Day gardening project.  Be sure to include a permission form to return with participant information so that you know who will attend.  Children must be accompanied by parents.
5. 5. Supply gloves, tools, and necessary materials.