Vermicomposting is a word used to describe composting using worms. This method is pretty small-scale, so it should be used alongside other more large-scale composting methods. It is a great way to get kids aware and thinking about decomposition, and unlike other methods can be done inside the classroom. The finished product, worm castings, is … Read more
The 3-bin compost system involves either building (or buying) 3 linked “bins” or boxes. This method is best for gardeners who have the ability to easily turn compost with a pitchfork, and for larger gardens that produce high amounts of plant and food waste. You will start by adding your first compost materials to the … Read more
This approach to composting is one of the cheapest and easiest to set up. It is best for gardens that do not struggle with larger pest animals and do not require fast compost turnover. This method involves simply choosing an area of one of your garden beds to start building your compost. Ideally, you will … Read more
This method works best for gardens that struggle with animal pests, for gardens that want faster composting turnover, or for gardens that have limited space. This approach to composting involves using any type of compost tumbler or vessel that can be moved around. Some you can roll across the ground, some revolve on a central … Read more
Composting is a great inexpensive way to fertilize your garden! Composting not only adds nutrients back to the soil from plant and food waste, but it can also increase your soil’s aeration, drainage and structure. In sandy soils, compost can help retain water, and in clay soils, compost can help increase drainage. Best of all, … Read more
Set Expectations for Bodies Particularly when tools are being used, it is important that students understand the space their body can take up and the space where the tool should be both when it is being utilized and when it is idle. It is ideal for students to each have a comfortable seat at a … Read more
Steps for Harvesting Produce in the School Garden Think ahead to harvesting time. This post helps you prepare for the harvest of any garden produce. Some things to consider include: when (or if) students will be eating the produce; whether the harvested produce is going to be used later in the lesson; how you want to … Read more
21st Century Skills refer to skills and knowledge that have been identified as important to students’ success in school, work, life, and citizenship. Partnership for 21st Century Learning is a network of education, business, and civic leaders who developed a Framework for 21st Century Learning. Four main elements of this framework include: Content knowledge (in traditional subjects) … Read more
Steps to Preparing Your Garden for the Winter These steps will help you lay your garden to rest for the colder season and also ensure it is ready to plant by spring. If you aren’t ready to stop gardening just yet, read our series about Techniques for Extending the Growing Season for pointers on how to get … Read more
Citizen Science refers to the involvement of the public in scientific research, often through contribution of observations into large data sets. Citizen science projects offer students a real-world context and opportunity to apply the observations they make as part of their classwork. Many CPF lessons and activities align with existing citizen science projects, providing students … Read more