Garden F.B.I.

Our third lesson this fall was about decomposers.  Decomposers help break down dead materials into nutrient-rich soil. Students acted as Garden FBI agents by finding fungus, bacteria and invertebrate in and around the garden.

Fungus was found on logs, wood chips and leaves. Since bacteria is microscopic, we looked for signs of bacteria and had game pieces with printed strains of bacteria on them that they could seek. For invertebrates, children were able to dig for worms and slugs. This was a favorite activity.

In nature, decomposers typically work well and balance naturally. In a compost tumbler, we have to ensure that we are providing materials that help good bacteria thrive. To teach the art of providing a compost tumbler with the right mix of materials, classes found “green” materials such as food scraps and plants we were clearing from the garden and mixed them with “brown” materials like leaves and shredded paper. Before putting in the compost tumbler, we made sure they had an equal amount of both.

Shop Locally and Give Back

Holiday Boutique 2016 is coming soon.

Friday, December 2nd from 5:30 to 8 pm
Saturday, December 3^rd from 10 to 5pm

Address and more details online at: https://www.facebook.com/events/1789416521275048/

20% of sales are being donated to Grow La Crosse.

All handmade products for gift giving! Shop local from local artisans.

Not Your Mother’s Apron products will be there.  They are made using no synthetic fragrances or artificial colors, as well as limiting the amount of plastic used in our packaging. All products are free of parabens, sulfates, silicones, and formaldehyde (or formaldehyde releasing) ingredients.

Good Read

Teaching in Nature’s Classroom was recently published.  This publication highlights current research on children in natural spaces.  It was a good reminder of all the different ways that garden education can benefit children.  For instance, did you know that playing in garden soil can help prevent allergies and asthma?  Download for free and read more:  http://www.teachinginnaturesclassroom.org/