This document provides guidance on different methods for building garden beds, including in-ground beds, raised beds, and container gardens. It describes how to prepare the soil for each method through actions like double digging, lasagna layering, and filling containers with nutrient-rich soil. Considerations for the design of garden beds like location, size, and inclusion of paths and trellises are also covered. A list of additional resources on school gardening is included.
Raised Bed Gardening ~ Oklahoma State University
`
For more information, Please see websites below:
`
Organic Edible Schoolyards & Gardening with Children
http://scribd.com/doc/239851214
`
Double Food Production from your School Garden with Organic Tech
http://scribd.com/doc/239851079
`
Free School Gardening Art Posters
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159`
`
Increase Food Production with Companion Planting in your School Garden
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159
`
Healthy Foods Dramatically Improves Student Academic Success
http://scribd.com/doc/239851348
`
City Chickens for your Organic School Garden
http://scribd.com/doc/239850440
`
Simple Square Foot Gardening for Schools - Teacher Guide
http://scribd.com/doc/239851110
Raised Bed Gardening; Gardening Guidebook for Fairbanks, Alaska ~ University of Alaska ~ For more information, Please see websites below:
`
Organic Edible Schoolyards & Gardening with Children =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851214 ~
`
Double Food Production from your School Garden with Organic Tech =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851079 ~
`
Free School Gardening Art Posters =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159 ~
`
Increase Food Production with Companion Planting in your School Garden =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159 ~
`
Healthy Foods Dramatically Improves Student Academic Success =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851348 ~
`
City Chickens for your Organic School Garden =
http://scribd.com/doc/239850440 ~
`
Huerto Ecológico, Tecnologías Sostenibles, Agricultura Organica
http://scribd.com/doc/239850233
`
Simple Square Foot Gardening for Schools - Teacher Guide =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851110
The document discusses the technique of no-dig gardening, which involves building raised garden beds by layering organic materials like compost, manure, and plant debris instead of digging in the soil. No-dig gardening has benefits like creating nutrient-rich soil, reducing weeding and watering needs, and adapting to any outdoor space. Instructions are provided on building and maintaining no-dig beds for growing vegetables and other plants successfully.
Lasagna Garden for Schools - Teacher Guide & Lesson PlansSeeds
This document provides instructions for building a lasagna garden, which is a method of sheet composting. It involves layering cardboard, compost, and mulch without tilling. This saves time and enriches the soil as the materials decompose. The instructions outline laying down cardboard or newspaper, adding 4-6 inches of compost and manure, and topping it with 6 inches of mulch. The lasagna garden should be left to cook for 3-6 months before planting. Sheet composting is similar to traditional Native American gardening methods and creates rich, organic soil full of earthworms with less digging and weeding.
52 .Kitchen gardening planing A Series of Lectures By Mr. Allah Dad Khan ...Mr.Allah Dad Khan
A Series of Lectures By Mr. Allah Dad Khan Former DG Agriculture Extension KPK , Provincial Project Director CMP II MINFAl Islamabad and Visiting Professor the University of Agriculture Peshawar Pakistan
Lasagna Gardening Composting - Sheet Mulch - Oregon State UniversityFayme4q
Sheet composting, also known as lasagna composting or sheet mulching, is a method of cold composting that involves layering carbon-rich and nitrogen-rich materials directly on the soil. It is useful for improving soil quality, converting lawn to garden beds, and expanding garden space. The process is simple, involving alternating layers of materials like leaves, manure, and newspaper until the pile reaches 18 inches to 3 feet tall. It may take 6 months or longer to fully decompose before planting, as there is no heat generated. Sheet composting is a low-cost and easy way to improve soil structure and recycle organic materials.
Lessons in School Gardening for Central States Region - Part 1xx5v1
This document provides 25 gardening lessons for teachers and supervisors of school gardens in the Central States region. The lessons are divided into two groups: the first focuses on preparing to plant, including selecting and preparing the garden area, planning crop layouts, and companion planting strategies. The second group covers planting, caring for, and harvesting different vegetable crops like lettuce, radishes, peas, onions, potatoes, beets, cabbage, and carrots. Sample garden plans for small and larger spaces using succession planting of different crops are also included. The lessons aim to teach gardening concepts and skills that can be covered in 15 minute periods.
57 .kitchen gardening planning A Series of Lectures By Mr. Allah Dad Khan ...Mr.Allah Dad Khan
A Series of Lectures By Mr. Allah Dad Khan Former DG Agriculture Extension KPK , Provincial Project Director CMP II MINFAl Islamabad and Visiting Professor the University of Agriculture Peshawar Pakistan
Raised Bed Gardening ~ Oklahoma State University
`
For more information, Please see websites below:
`
Organic Edible Schoolyards & Gardening with Children
http://scribd.com/doc/239851214
`
Double Food Production from your School Garden with Organic Tech
http://scribd.com/doc/239851079
`
Free School Gardening Art Posters
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159`
`
Increase Food Production with Companion Planting in your School Garden
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159
`
Healthy Foods Dramatically Improves Student Academic Success
http://scribd.com/doc/239851348
`
City Chickens for your Organic School Garden
http://scribd.com/doc/239850440
`
Simple Square Foot Gardening for Schools - Teacher Guide
http://scribd.com/doc/239851110
Raised Bed Gardening; Gardening Guidebook for Fairbanks, Alaska ~ University of Alaska ~ For more information, Please see websites below:
`
Organic Edible Schoolyards & Gardening with Children =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851214 ~
`
Double Food Production from your School Garden with Organic Tech =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851079 ~
`
Free School Gardening Art Posters =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159 ~
`
Increase Food Production with Companion Planting in your School Garden =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159 ~
`
Healthy Foods Dramatically Improves Student Academic Success =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851348 ~
`
City Chickens for your Organic School Garden =
http://scribd.com/doc/239850440 ~
`
Huerto Ecológico, Tecnologías Sostenibles, Agricultura Organica
http://scribd.com/doc/239850233
`
Simple Square Foot Gardening for Schools - Teacher Guide =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851110
The document discusses the technique of no-dig gardening, which involves building raised garden beds by layering organic materials like compost, manure, and plant debris instead of digging in the soil. No-dig gardening has benefits like creating nutrient-rich soil, reducing weeding and watering needs, and adapting to any outdoor space. Instructions are provided on building and maintaining no-dig beds for growing vegetables and other plants successfully.
Lasagna Garden for Schools - Teacher Guide & Lesson PlansSeeds
This document provides instructions for building a lasagna garden, which is a method of sheet composting. It involves layering cardboard, compost, and mulch without tilling. This saves time and enriches the soil as the materials decompose. The instructions outline laying down cardboard or newspaper, adding 4-6 inches of compost and manure, and topping it with 6 inches of mulch. The lasagna garden should be left to cook for 3-6 months before planting. Sheet composting is similar to traditional Native American gardening methods and creates rich, organic soil full of earthworms with less digging and weeding.
52 .Kitchen gardening planing A Series of Lectures By Mr. Allah Dad Khan ...Mr.Allah Dad Khan
A Series of Lectures By Mr. Allah Dad Khan Former DG Agriculture Extension KPK , Provincial Project Director CMP II MINFAl Islamabad and Visiting Professor the University of Agriculture Peshawar Pakistan
Lasagna Gardening Composting - Sheet Mulch - Oregon State UniversityFayme4q
Sheet composting, also known as lasagna composting or sheet mulching, is a method of cold composting that involves layering carbon-rich and nitrogen-rich materials directly on the soil. It is useful for improving soil quality, converting lawn to garden beds, and expanding garden space. The process is simple, involving alternating layers of materials like leaves, manure, and newspaper until the pile reaches 18 inches to 3 feet tall. It may take 6 months or longer to fully decompose before planting, as there is no heat generated. Sheet composting is a low-cost and easy way to improve soil structure and recycle organic materials.
Lessons in School Gardening for Central States Region - Part 1xx5v1
This document provides 25 gardening lessons for teachers and supervisors of school gardens in the Central States region. The lessons are divided into two groups: the first focuses on preparing to plant, including selecting and preparing the garden area, planning crop layouts, and companion planting strategies. The second group covers planting, caring for, and harvesting different vegetable crops like lettuce, radishes, peas, onions, potatoes, beets, cabbage, and carrots. Sample garden plans for small and larger spaces using succession planting of different crops are also included. The lessons aim to teach gardening concepts and skills that can be covered in 15 minute periods.
57 .kitchen gardening planning A Series of Lectures By Mr. Allah Dad Khan ...Mr.Allah Dad Khan
A Series of Lectures By Mr. Allah Dad Khan Former DG Agriculture Extension KPK , Provincial Project Director CMP II MINFAl Islamabad and Visiting Professor the University of Agriculture Peshawar Pakistan
Hugelkultur is a mound cultivation technique that involves burying wood in garden beds to slowly decompose and enrich the soil over many years. Wood, leaves, and other plant debris are layered and compacted to form raised mounds. As the wood decomposes, it retains water and nutrients, providing benefits to plant growth for 10-20 years. Hugelkultur can be created by digging trenches and filling them with wood, or by building mounds directly on top of grass or sod. Proper siting and design is important to maximize benefits. Sepp Holzer pioneered hugelkultur in Austria in the 1960s and it has since spread as an organic soil-building method.
This document outlines 10 steps for a successful vegetable garden:
1. Select a sunny location with good drainage.
2. Plan your garden layout and arrange plants by harvest time.
3. Choose recommended vegetable varieties.
4. Obtain quality seeds, plants, tools and supplies.
5. Prepare soil by adding organic matter and fertilizer.
6. Plant seeds and transplants properly, ensuring good spacing and depth.
7. Water regularly to keep soil moist without overwatering.
Starting Plants Early Outdoors - New Mexico State UniversityFiona9864
This document provides several methods for starting plants early outdoors, including using peat pots, seed flats, cold frames, hot beds, mulches, and protective structures like inner tubes and plastic jugs. It emphasizes the importance of gradually exposing young plants to the outdoors and using techniques like shading, watering, and mulches to harden plants off. Various materials for protecting seedlings from cold and wind are described, such as cold frames, hot beds, hot caps, walls of water, and black plastic mulch.
Container gardening offers benefits for plants and gardeners by allowing control over the growing environment. It allows optimization of conditions and overcomes limitations of space or soil quality. Container gardening provides flexibility in plant and garden placement, portability, and the ability to start plants indoors or protect frost-sensitive plants. A variety of containers can be used for container gardening, and proper soil, watering, and fertilization are required to support plant growth in containers.
1. Earthworms are beneficial for soil and composting as they break down organic matter, aerate the soil, and produce nutrient-rich castings. Starting a worm farm or vermicomposting bin provides a way to utilize food scraps and bedding materials while the worms break them down into a fertilizer.
2. Proper care of a worm farm or vermicompost bin involves maintaining moisture levels that are damp but not wet, providing a dark environment, and regularly feeding the worms kitchen scraps and other organic materials while harvesting the finished compost.
3. Red worms are best for composting as they can process large amounts of food waste and tolerate a variety of conditions
The document provides information on different gardening options for urban areas with limited space. It discusses no-dig gardening, which involves layering cardboard, straw, and manure without turning the soil. This allows worms and microorganisms to naturally improve the soil over time. Instructions are given for creating a no-dig garden, including starting with seedlings and adding more layers as the initial ones break down. Wicking beds are also described, which use a layered system to water plants from below by capillary action.
Farm to Preschool_Garden Workshop_ From Seed to Snackrosa_oxy
This document provides guidance for planting and maintaining an edible garden with preschool students. It discusses the benefits of gardening, recommends using raised beds, containers or in-ground plots depending on site conditions. It offers tips for choosing garden tools, site selection, planting schedules and techniques, watering, dealing with pests, harvesting, and sustaining the garden with parent volunteers. The presentation includes resources for soil testing, seed starting, companion planting, and poisonous plants. It aims to encourage hands-on learning and healthy eating.
Southern California Preschool Garden PrimerFayina19z
The document provides instructions for creating a raised garden bed, including a planting schedule and guide for Southern California, a companion planting guide, garden activities for kids such as making seed tapes and pinecone birdfeeders, and recipes using fresh garden ingredients. It aims to educate on organic gardening best practices and engaging children in the garden.
In this type of vegetable garden, we set up a vegetable garden as it is best known, that is to say in dedicating precise zones to each culture. For example, we sow a square of carrots, another of radish,
Siting the School Garden ~ MA Ag in Classroom
`
For more information, Please see websites below:
`
Organic Edible Schoolyards & Gardening with Children
http://scribd.com/doc/239851214
`
Double Food Production from your School Garden with Organic Tech
http://scribd.com/doc/239851079
`
Free School Gardening Art Posters
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159`
`
Companion Planting Increases Food Production from School Gardens
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159
`
Healthy Foods Dramatically Improves Student Academic Success
http://scribd.com/doc/239851348
`
City Chickens for your Organic School Garden
http://scribd.com/doc/239850440
`
Simple Square Foot Gardening for Schools - Teacher Guide
http://scribd.com/doc/239851110
46.Kitchen gardening and containers gardening A Series of Lectures By Mr. ...Mr.Allah Dad Khan
A Series of Lectures By Mr. Allah Dad Khan Former DG Agriculture Extension KPK , Provincial Project Director CMP II MINFAl Islamabad and Visiting Professor the University of Agriculture Peshawar Pakistan
STEM-H in the Garden: 30 (or So) Garden Activities in 60 Minutes (or Less)Ben Capozzi
This document outlines various STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) activities that can be done in a garden. It discusses 31 different garden projects that teach STEM concepts, from exploring soil types and building compost to designing gardens, growing specific plants, and developing unique plant varieties. The projects are meant to get people outside and engaged with nature, science, and problem-solving through hands-on gardening experiences.
This document discusses the benefits of incorporating medicinal and deep-rooted plants into livestock pastures and grazing mixtures. It summarizes the work and experiments of Newman Turner who found that pasture mixtures with diverse herbs produced healthier soils, cattle, and higher milk yields compared to simpler grass-legume mixtures. Some of the key plants Turner found beneficial include chicory, burnet, plantain, sheep's parsley, and yarrow. The document advocates designing pasture mixtures tailored to soil and season to provide maximum grazing and benefits to both livestock and soil health.
Use tiger worms and red worms for composting. Start with at least 1kg of worms for a family of 4-6, which will increase over 4-6 months. Once established, extra worms can be added to other compost heaps or given away.
The wicking bed system captures carbon from the atmosphere in the soil through a wet and dry cycle during decomposition. This reduces carbon emissions. It also allows food production with minimal water loss through an underground water reservoir accessed by plants. Organic material decomposes anaerobically, embedding carbon in the soil long-term. The system improves soil quality and structure while efficiently using water resources through capillary action.
78 . Kitchen garden (seed bed preparation) A Series of Lectures By Mr. Allah...Mr.Allah Dad Khan
This document provides instructions for preparing traditional in-ground planting beds. The key steps include:
1) Adding 6 inches of organic matter such as manure or compost to the soil.
2) Tilling the soil to incorporate the organic matter.
3) Removing weeds and rocks from the loosened soil.
4) Marking rows and mounding soil into rows to reduce moisture damage, or leaving rows depressed to catch rainwater.
5) Creating trenches or holes for planting seeds or seedlings.
This document discusses the importance of trees and provides instructions for setting up a tree nursery and planting trees. It outlines the economic, environmental, and sociocultural value of trees, including their use for timber, fuel, food, medicine, habitat, soil conservation, and cultural/religious purposes. It then provides a 14-step process for selecting a nursery site, growing seedlings, and properly planting trees, emphasizing choosing the right species, preparing holes, handling seedlings carefully, and protecting newly planted trees. The overall document promotes the value of trees and provides guidance for establishing nurseries and conducting tree planting initiatives.
Hugelkultur is a mound cultivation technique that involves burying wood in garden beds to slowly decompose and enrich the soil over many years. Wood, leaves, and other plant debris are layered and compacted to form raised mounds. As the wood decomposes, it retains water and nutrients, providing benefits to plant growth for 10-20 years. Hugelkultur can be created by digging trenches and filling them with wood, or by building mounds directly on top of grass or sod. Proper siting and design is important to maximize benefits. Sepp Holzer pioneered hugelkultur in Austria in the 1960s and it has since spread as an organic soil-building method.
This document outlines 10 steps for a successful vegetable garden:
1. Select a sunny location with good drainage.
2. Plan your garden layout and arrange plants by harvest time.
3. Choose recommended vegetable varieties.
4. Obtain quality seeds, plants, tools and supplies.
5. Prepare soil by adding organic matter and fertilizer.
6. Plant seeds and transplants properly, ensuring good spacing and depth.
7. Water regularly to keep soil moist without overwatering.
Starting Plants Early Outdoors - New Mexico State UniversityFiona9864
This document provides several methods for starting plants early outdoors, including using peat pots, seed flats, cold frames, hot beds, mulches, and protective structures like inner tubes and plastic jugs. It emphasizes the importance of gradually exposing young plants to the outdoors and using techniques like shading, watering, and mulches to harden plants off. Various materials for protecting seedlings from cold and wind are described, such as cold frames, hot beds, hot caps, walls of water, and black plastic mulch.
Container gardening offers benefits for plants and gardeners by allowing control over the growing environment. It allows optimization of conditions and overcomes limitations of space or soil quality. Container gardening provides flexibility in plant and garden placement, portability, and the ability to start plants indoors or protect frost-sensitive plants. A variety of containers can be used for container gardening, and proper soil, watering, and fertilization are required to support plant growth in containers.
1. Earthworms are beneficial for soil and composting as they break down organic matter, aerate the soil, and produce nutrient-rich castings. Starting a worm farm or vermicomposting bin provides a way to utilize food scraps and bedding materials while the worms break them down into a fertilizer.
2. Proper care of a worm farm or vermicompost bin involves maintaining moisture levels that are damp but not wet, providing a dark environment, and regularly feeding the worms kitchen scraps and other organic materials while harvesting the finished compost.
3. Red worms are best for composting as they can process large amounts of food waste and tolerate a variety of conditions
The document provides information on different gardening options for urban areas with limited space. It discusses no-dig gardening, which involves layering cardboard, straw, and manure without turning the soil. This allows worms and microorganisms to naturally improve the soil over time. Instructions are given for creating a no-dig garden, including starting with seedlings and adding more layers as the initial ones break down. Wicking beds are also described, which use a layered system to water plants from below by capillary action.
Farm to Preschool_Garden Workshop_ From Seed to Snackrosa_oxy
This document provides guidance for planting and maintaining an edible garden with preschool students. It discusses the benefits of gardening, recommends using raised beds, containers or in-ground plots depending on site conditions. It offers tips for choosing garden tools, site selection, planting schedules and techniques, watering, dealing with pests, harvesting, and sustaining the garden with parent volunteers. The presentation includes resources for soil testing, seed starting, companion planting, and poisonous plants. It aims to encourage hands-on learning and healthy eating.
Southern California Preschool Garden PrimerFayina19z
The document provides instructions for creating a raised garden bed, including a planting schedule and guide for Southern California, a companion planting guide, garden activities for kids such as making seed tapes and pinecone birdfeeders, and recipes using fresh garden ingredients. It aims to educate on organic gardening best practices and engaging children in the garden.
In this type of vegetable garden, we set up a vegetable garden as it is best known, that is to say in dedicating precise zones to each culture. For example, we sow a square of carrots, another of radish,
Siting the School Garden ~ MA Ag in Classroom
`
For more information, Please see websites below:
`
Organic Edible Schoolyards & Gardening with Children
http://scribd.com/doc/239851214
`
Double Food Production from your School Garden with Organic Tech
http://scribd.com/doc/239851079
`
Free School Gardening Art Posters
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159`
`
Companion Planting Increases Food Production from School Gardens
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159
`
Healthy Foods Dramatically Improves Student Academic Success
http://scribd.com/doc/239851348
`
City Chickens for your Organic School Garden
http://scribd.com/doc/239850440
`
Simple Square Foot Gardening for Schools - Teacher Guide
http://scribd.com/doc/239851110
46.Kitchen gardening and containers gardening A Series of Lectures By Mr. ...Mr.Allah Dad Khan
A Series of Lectures By Mr. Allah Dad Khan Former DG Agriculture Extension KPK , Provincial Project Director CMP II MINFAl Islamabad and Visiting Professor the University of Agriculture Peshawar Pakistan
STEM-H in the Garden: 30 (or So) Garden Activities in 60 Minutes (or Less)Ben Capozzi
This document outlines various STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) activities that can be done in a garden. It discusses 31 different garden projects that teach STEM concepts, from exploring soil types and building compost to designing gardens, growing specific plants, and developing unique plant varieties. The projects are meant to get people outside and engaged with nature, science, and problem-solving through hands-on gardening experiences.
This document discusses the benefits of incorporating medicinal and deep-rooted plants into livestock pastures and grazing mixtures. It summarizes the work and experiments of Newman Turner who found that pasture mixtures with diverse herbs produced healthier soils, cattle, and higher milk yields compared to simpler grass-legume mixtures. Some of the key plants Turner found beneficial include chicory, burnet, plantain, sheep's parsley, and yarrow. The document advocates designing pasture mixtures tailored to soil and season to provide maximum grazing and benefits to both livestock and soil health.
Use tiger worms and red worms for composting. Start with at least 1kg of worms for a family of 4-6, which will increase over 4-6 months. Once established, extra worms can be added to other compost heaps or given away.
The wicking bed system captures carbon from the atmosphere in the soil through a wet and dry cycle during decomposition. This reduces carbon emissions. It also allows food production with minimal water loss through an underground water reservoir accessed by plants. Organic material decomposes anaerobically, embedding carbon in the soil long-term. The system improves soil quality and structure while efficiently using water resources through capillary action.
78 . Kitchen garden (seed bed preparation) A Series of Lectures By Mr. Allah...Mr.Allah Dad Khan
This document provides instructions for preparing traditional in-ground planting beds. The key steps include:
1) Adding 6 inches of organic matter such as manure or compost to the soil.
2) Tilling the soil to incorporate the organic matter.
3) Removing weeds and rocks from the loosened soil.
4) Marking rows and mounding soil into rows to reduce moisture damage, or leaving rows depressed to catch rainwater.
5) Creating trenches or holes for planting seeds or seedlings.
This document discusses the importance of trees and provides instructions for setting up a tree nursery and planting trees. It outlines the economic, environmental, and sociocultural value of trees, including their use for timber, fuel, food, medicine, habitat, soil conservation, and cultural/religious purposes. It then provides a 14-step process for selecting a nursery site, growing seedlings, and properly planting trees, emphasizing choosing the right species, preparing holes, handling seedlings carefully, and protecting newly planted trees. The overall document promotes the value of trees and provides guidance for establishing nurseries and conducting tree planting initiatives.
The document provides information about various gardening club meetings and events happening in November 2012 in Yavapai County, Arizona. It also includes articles on raised bed gardening, pumpkin muffins, recognizing master gardeners at an annual picnic, and tips for fall garden cleanup and cover crops. The newsletter provides a table of contents, contact details for different gardening clubs, instructions for building and maintaining raised beds, a pumpkin muffin recipe, a summary of a master gardener recognition picnic, and advice on incorporating plant debris into the soil and planting cover crops in the fall.
TERRARIUM GUIDE 2- TLE Horticultural crop production.pdfFeDelgado3
This document provides instructions for creating and caring for a terrarium. It explains that a terrarium is a collection of plants growing in an enclosed glass container, which helps maintain a humid environment. The summary includes instructions on the materials needed such as a glass container, soil, drainage, charcoal and suitable plants. It also outlines the steps to assemble the terrarium, including lining the container, adding layers of materials, planting the plants and maintaining the terrarium.
75 .Kitchen gardening (seed bed preparation) A Series of Lectures By Mr. Alla...Mr.Allah Dad Khan
A Series of Lectures By Mr. Allah Dad Khan Former DG Agriculture Extension KPK , Provincial Project Director CMP II MINFAl Islamabad and Visiting Professor the University of Agriculture Peshawar Pakistan
Seed bed preparation for kitchen gardening A Presentation ByMr. Allah dad Kh...Mr.Allah Dad Khan
Seed bed preparation for kitchen gardening A Presentation ByMr. Allah dad KhanVisiting Professor the University of Agriculture Peshawar allahdad52@gmail.com
This document discusses the production of the second edition of the Alice Springs Vegie Garden Companion. It thanks the many contributors to the first edition and the new editor, Katrina Patton, for her work in producing this revised version. It acknowledges the support of the Northern Territory Government through an environment grant. The Companion is intended to inspire and assist people in growing their own food in arid Australia. It provides tips on planning gardens, soil preparation, dealing with weeds, and creating no-dig and container gardens.
This document provides guidance on proper care and management of houseplants. It discusses isolating new plants for 30 days to check for pests before placing near other plants. It emphasizes that overwatering and insufficient light are leading causes of failure. The document covers soil mixtures, watering, fertilizing, repotting procedures, and common problems like wilting, yellowing leaves, and pest infestations. Correct identification of issues is key to taking the proper corrective actions.
Row Covers & Gardens; Gardening Guidebook for Rockingham County, New Hampshire ~ Exeter Area Garden Club, University of New Hampshire ~ For more information, Please see websites below:
`
Organic Edible Schoolyards & Gardening with Children =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851214 ~
`
Double Food Production from your School Garden with Organic Tech =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851079 ~
`
Free School Gardening Art Posters =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159 ~
`
Increase Food Production with Companion Planting in your School Garden =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159 ~
`
Healthy Foods Dramatically Improves Student Academic Success =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851348 ~
`
City Chickens for your Organic School Garden =
http://scribd.com/doc/239850440 ~
`
Huerto Ecológico, Tecnologías Sostenibles, Agricultura Organica
http://scribd.com/doc/239850233
`
Simple Square Foot Gardening for Schools - Teacher Guide =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851110
This document provides tips for backyard gardening using little space. It recommends planting vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, and calaloo in an 8' by 5' plot with 10-12 inches of soil, which is enough to grow a variety of crops. It emphasizes the importance of composting organic materials to enrich the soil and explains how to build a compost pile. The document encourages readers to be responsible consumers and preserve natural resources through small-scale backyard gardening.
This document provides information about sustainable gardening practices for residents of Frankston City, including garden design, soil care, composting, water conservation, plant selection, and more. It includes checklists for readers to self-assess their sustainable gardening practices. The document was produced by Frankston City Council to educate and encourage more environmentally-friendly gardening. It suggests replacing non-native plants with local species that require less water and chemicals, improving soil health through composting and mulching, capturing rainwater and greywater for irrigation, and designing water-wise gardens. The overall goal is to help local residents garden in a way that benefits the environment and reduces negative impacts on water and other resources.
Soil erosion is the process by which topsoil is removed from one location and transported to another by water, wind, animals or humans. There are different types of soil erosion including splash erosion caused by raindrops, sheet erosion caused by surface runoff on flat land, rill erosion where runoff forms small channels, and gully erosion where rills deepen into large ditches. Soil erosion can be controlled through methods like establishing ground cover, planting trees and crops, using mulch, and constructing structures like gabions, check dams, and terraces. Controlling soil erosion preserves soil fertility and the environment.
Gardeners can create raised garden beds using hay or straw bales. The bales hold moisture well and raise the garden to a height that is easier for gardening. Wheat, rice, and barley straw bales are best as they drain well, though other hay types can also work. It is important to select bales that did not come from fields treated with certain herbicides. The bales should be placed in an area with full sun exposure and prepared by thoroughly soaking with water and adding limestone and fertilizer to start the composting process. After two weeks of composting, plants can be planted by making holes in the bales. The bales require regular watering and make gard
The document describes three methods for removing a lawn without using herbicides: the sod cutter method, the multiple-till and irrigation method, and sheet-composting. The sod cutter method involves slicing off the sod layer and can be done with a spade or rented sod cutter. The multiple-till method covers the sod with amendments and rototills it repeatedly to deplete weed seeds. Sheet-composting builds layers of organic materials over the lawn to smother and decompose it. Each method has advantages like speed or ease but requires proper execution to be effective at removing the lawn.
1. Earthworms are beneficial for soil and composting as they break up soil, aerate the soil, and produce nutrient-rich castings. They can be kept in a worm farm to compost food scraps.
2. A worm farm consists of a container with bedding material like shredded paper and food scraps. Red worms are best as they eat a lot and tolerate various conditions.
3. The worm farm should be kept moist but not wet, and harvested periodically by removing castings while leaving worms in bedding. The castings can be used to fertilize plants.
This document provides information about testing soil and understanding soil composition. It discusses the importance of testing the pH and nutrient levels of soil and describes different types of soil tests that can be done, including pH, nutrient, percolation, and soil composition tests. The document explains that soil composition and drainage are important to understand because they impact what can be grown and how to fertilize. It provides details on different soil types (sandy, clay, and silt) and how to identify soil type through simple tests like the ribbon, squeeze, and soil wash tests. The goal is to help gardeners better understand and care for the soil in their gardens.
69 .Kitchen gardening ( facts) A Series of Lectures By Mr. Allah Dad Khan Fo...Mr.Allah Dad Khan
A Series of Lectures By Mr. Allah Dad Khan Former DG Agriculture Extension KPK , Provincial Project Director CMP II MINFAl Islamabad and Visiting Professor the University of Agriculture Peshawar Pakistan
An evapotranspiration (ET) bed uses evaporation and plant transpiration to treat wastewater. It consists of storage trenches filled with crushed stone or other media, surrounded by loamy soil and planted with grass. Wastewater flows from the septic tank into the distribution pipes in the trenches. The water then evaporates or is absorbed by plant roots and transpired out of their leaves. Proper maintenance of the grass cover and diversion of rainfall runoff are needed for the system to function effectively.
Similar to Building the Garden Beds for the School Garden (20)
Marthe Cohn was a Jewish French spy who risked her life to gather intelligence for the French resistance during WWII. She infiltrated Nazi Germany using her fluent German and managed to discover key military information. As a result, the French army was able to achieve an important victory. Cohn went on to have a long career as a nurse and nurse anesthetist. She has received numerous honors for her wartime heroism and courageously fights to keep the memory of the Holocaust alive.
This document provides links to resources about organic gardening techniques, urban farming, rainwater harvesting, green roofs, straight vegetable oil vehicles, garden therapy, volunteering on organic farms in Europe, solar energy training, and eco-friendly coffee beans. It discusses how organic gardening technologies can increase plant yields by 400% and provides catalogs and manuals about topics such as city farming, backyard farming, rain gardens, and aquaponics systems. The links provide free information for organic and sustainable living practices.
Ruth Jones, a Christian teacher without a master's degree or administrative experience, was unexpectedly named principal of a struggling inner city elementary school in Grand Rapids, Michigan that was on the verge of closure due to poor academic performance. Through prayer, addressing students' practical needs, and recruiting volunteers, Jones led a dramatic turnaround of the school over 20 years. Test scores and graduation rates increased sharply, and the school now has a waiting list despite originally facing closure. Jones attributes the school's success to aligning herself with God.
- Coconut oil may help slow or prevent Alzheimer's disease in some people by providing an alternative fuel for brain cells in the form of ketones. Dr. Mary Newport put her husband Steve, who had Alzheimer's, on a diet supplemented with coconut oil, which led to improvements in his symptoms and cognitive abilities.
- Researchers have developed a ketone ester that is more potent than coconut oil, but it is very expensive to produce. Coconut oil remains a viable alternative source of ketones. Taking coconut oil may also help with other neurological diseases due to its ability to increase ketone levels and good cholesterol while reducing bad bacteria.
A teacher in Baltimore transformed the lives of students from the slums. In the 1920s, college students evaluated 200 boys from the slums and said they had no chance of success. Twenty-five years later, it was found that 176 of the 180 boys who could be located had achieved success as lawyers, doctors, and businessmen. The professor interviewed each man and they all credited their success to a teacher who had loved and believed in them. When interviewed, the elderly teacher said her simple method was that she loved those boys.
Robert Raikes witnessed the poor conditions of children in Gloucester, England in the late 18th century due to the Industrial Revolution. This inspired him to create the first Sunday school to educate and reform street children. The Sunday school used the Bible as its textbook and proved hugely successful in improving behavior and civic responsibility. Raikes' idea then spread across Britain and to other parts of Europe and America, revolutionizing religious education of children and community outreach efforts of churches. Late in life, Raikes had a profound spiritual experience witnessing a young girl reading the Bible that gave him a new understanding of faith.
The document discusses using Groasis Waterboxx devices to help plant and grow trees in dry environments like the Sahara Desert. It describes how the author and a colleague tried using 10 Waterboxx devices to plant trees in M'hamid, Morocco but their luggage containing the devices was initially lost. They were eventually found and the devices were used to plant tamarisk trees to compare growth with traditional planting methods. The document provides details on how the Waterboxx works, collecting condensation and directing water to tree roots, and hopes the experiment will help increase tree survival rates in the dry climate.
The Groasis Waterboxx is a low-tech device that helps seeds and saplings grow into strong trees in dry environments. It collects and stores rainwater and condensation to slowly water the roots daily. In tests, 88% of trees grown with the Waterboxx survived compared to only 10.5% without it. The inventor believes using this technology could reforest billions of acres and offset humanity's carbon emissions by capturing CO2 in new tree growth.
The document discusses the Groasis Technology, a planting method that uses a Waterboxx and other techniques to plant trees in dry areas with 90% less water. It summarizes that the technology (1) improves soil, maps planting areas, harvests rainfall, and uses the right planting techniques to help trees grow deep roots in the first year to survive independently. It also describes how the technology terraces slopes to harvest and direct rainfall to trees, uses 3D imaging to map ideal planting lines, and a capillary drill to quickly plant thousands of trees per day.
The document describes the Agua, Vida y Naturaleza Project (AVNP) that started in Ecuador in 2012. It is funded by the Dutch COmON Foundation to help small farmers in dry areas by introducing the Groasis Technology, which allows planting in deserts and eroded lands. The technology mimics nature by improving soil, maintaining capillary structures, and using a waterboxx device. The project aims to address issues small farmers face like lack of water, capital, and farming knowledge, in order to help alleviate world hunger and prevent farmers from migrating to cities due to lack of income from farming dry areas.
The document provides planting instructions for using a Waterboxx planting device. It outlines 6 main steps:
1. Preparing the soil by digging holes and adding compost/fertilizer or just watering.
2. Assembling the Waterboxx by placing the wick, mid-plate, lid, and siphons.
3. Preparing plants by pruning roots to encourage deep growth.
4. Planting in holes aligned east-west within the Waterboxx hole.
5. Placing the assembled Waterboxx over the planted area.
6. Watering the plants and filling the Waterboxx for the first time.
This document provides instructions for growing vegetables using the Groasis Waterboxx system. It details recommendations for greenhouse design, soil preparation, planting methods, plant spacing, watering schedules, and pest and disease management. Proper installation and maintenance of the Waterboxx system is emphasized to ensure healthy plant growth and high crop yields. Close monitoring of climate conditions and plant needs is also advised.
The document is a report on the Groasis waterboxx, a device that aims to allow farming without irrigation. It provides an overview of the waterboxx's history and development, describes its components and how it works, reviews testing that has been done, and evaluates its suitability for organic farming. In the conclusion, the report recommends that the cooperative discussed in the document not use the waterboxx yet, as more data is still needed, but could consider conducting their own tests with support from their technical services.
The document summarizes an invention called the Groasis that helps plants survive in arid climates by collecting and storing rainfall to provide steady watering to seedlings. It notes that most rainfall in deserts occurs within one week but is then unavailable, and that the Groasis uses evaporation-proof containers and wicking to deliver water to young plants over longer periods, allowing their roots to develop and access deeper groundwater reserves. Large-scale projects have used the Groasis in countries like Kenya to aid reforestation efforts and combat desertification.
The document summarizes the work of the Sahara Roots Foundation in Morocco and their use of the Groasis Waterboxx to help plant trees and reduce desertification. The Sahara Roots Foundation was established to implement development projects to conserve the Moroccan Sahara through activities like tree planting, irrigation, education, and desert cleaning. They have started using the Groasis Waterboxx, an "intelligent water battery" developed by AquaPro, to improve the survival rate of newly planted trees. The Waterboxx produces and captures water through condensation and rain, allowing trees to be planted in dry areas like rocks and deserts with a 100% success rate.
The document describes the Agua, Vida y Naturaleza Project (AVNP) that started in Ecuador in 2012. It is funded by the Dutch COmON Foundation to help small farmers in dry areas by introducing the Groasis Technology, which allows planting in deserts and eroded lands. The technology mimics nature by improving soil, maintaining capillary structures, and using a waterboxx device. The project aims to address issues small farmers face like lack of water, capital, and farming knowledge, in order to help alleviate world hunger and prevent farmers from migrating to cities.
Groasis Technology is compared to drip irrigation over a 50-year project for a 500-hectare tree plantation. Key financial indicators show that using Groasis Waterboxes results in a higher net present value (NPV) of €26.62 million compared to €21.15 million for drip irrigation, and a slightly higher internal rate of return (IRR) of 22.1% versus 23.4% for drip irrigation. Waterboxx also has a longer payback period of 7 years compared to 5 years for drip irrigation. The document provides assumptions and calculations for costs and revenues for both systems over the 50-year period.
A new technology called the Groasis Waterboxx shows promise for reclaiming desert landscapes and increasing plant survival rates. The simple device regulates temperature and moisture levels around young plants, allowing trees and crops to grow with little watering even in dry conditions. Initial trials in Africa found tree survival rates increased to 88% with the Waterboxx compared to only 10% without it. Researchers in Kenya are optimistic this technology could significantly reduce desertification and help transform the country's deserts into productive, economic areas through increased vegetation.
More from School Vegetable Gardening - Victory Gardens (20)
How to Build a Module in Odoo 17 Using the Scaffold MethodCeline George
Odoo provides an option for creating a module by using a single line command. By using this command the user can make a whole structure of a module. It is very easy for a beginner to make a module. There is no need to make each file manually. This slide will show how to create a module using the scaffold method.
ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, and GDPR: Best Practices for Implementation and...PECB
Denis is a dynamic and results-driven Chief Information Officer (CIO) with a distinguished career spanning information systems analysis and technical project management. With a proven track record of spearheading the design and delivery of cutting-edge Information Management solutions, he has consistently elevated business operations, streamlined reporting functions, and maximized process efficiency.
Certified as an ISO/IEC 27001: Information Security Management Systems (ISMS) Lead Implementer, Data Protection Officer, and Cyber Risks Analyst, Denis brings a heightened focus on data security, privacy, and cyber resilience to every endeavor.
His expertise extends across a diverse spectrum of reporting, database, and web development applications, underpinned by an exceptional grasp of data storage and virtualization technologies. His proficiency in application testing, database administration, and data cleansing ensures seamless execution of complex projects.
What sets Denis apart is his comprehensive understanding of Business and Systems Analysis technologies, honed through involvement in all phases of the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC). From meticulous requirements gathering to precise analysis, innovative design, rigorous development, thorough testing, and successful implementation, he has consistently delivered exceptional results.
Throughout his career, he has taken on multifaceted roles, from leading technical project management teams to owning solutions that drive operational excellence. His conscientious and proactive approach is unwavering, whether he is working independently or collaboratively within a team. His ability to connect with colleagues on a personal level underscores his commitment to fostering a harmonious and productive workplace environment.
Date: May 29, 2024
Tags: Information Security, ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, Artificial Intelligence, GDPR
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How to Manage Your Lost Opportunities in Odoo 17 CRMCeline George
Odoo 17 CRM allows us to track why we lose sales opportunities with "Lost Reasons." This helps analyze our sales process and identify areas for improvement. Here's how to configure lost reasons in Odoo 17 CRM
How to Add Chatter in the odoo 17 ERP ModuleCeline George
In Odoo, the chatter is like a chat tool that helps you work together on records. You can leave notes and track things, making it easier to talk with your team and partners. Inside chatter, all communication history, activity, and changes will be displayed.
Walmart Business+ and Spark Good for Nonprofits.pdfTechSoup
"Learn about all the ways Walmart supports nonprofit organizations.
You will hear from Liz Willett, the Head of Nonprofits, and hear about what Walmart is doing to help nonprofits, including Walmart Business and Spark Good. Walmart Business+ is a new offer for nonprofits that offers discounts and also streamlines nonprofits order and expense tracking, saving time and money.
The webinar may also give some examples on how nonprofits can best leverage Walmart Business+.
The event will cover the following::
Walmart Business + (https://business.walmart.com/plus) is a new shopping experience for nonprofits, schools, and local business customers that connects an exclusive online shopping experience to stores. Benefits include free delivery and shipping, a 'Spend Analytics” feature, special discounts, deals and tax-exempt shopping.
Special TechSoup offer for a free 180 days membership, and up to $150 in discounts on eligible orders.
Spark Good (walmart.com/sparkgood) is a charitable platform that enables nonprofits to receive donations directly from customers and associates.
Answers about how you can do more with Walmart!"
A workshop hosted by the South African Journal of Science aimed at postgraduate students and early career researchers with little or no experience in writing and publishing journal articles.
LAND USE LAND COVER AND NDVI OF MIRZAPUR DISTRICT, UPRAHUL
This Dissertation explores the particular circumstances of Mirzapur, a region located in the
core of India. Mirzapur, with its varied terrains and abundant biodiversity, offers an optimal
environment for investigating the changes in vegetation cover dynamics. Our study utilizes
advanced technologies such as GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and Remote sensing to
analyze the transformations that have taken place over the course of a decade.
The complex relationship between human activities and the environment has been the focus
of extensive research and worry. As the global community grapples with swift urbanization,
population expansion, and economic progress, the effects on natural ecosystems are becoming
more evident. A crucial element of this impact is the alteration of vegetation cover, which plays a
significant role in maintaining the ecological equilibrium of our planet.Land serves as the foundation for all human activities and provides the necessary materials for
these activities. As the most crucial natural resource, its utilization by humans results in different
'Land uses,' which are determined by both human activities and the physical characteristics of the
land.
The utilization of land is impacted by human needs and environmental factors. In countries
like India, rapid population growth and the emphasis on extensive resource exploitation can lead
to significant land degradation, adversely affecting the region's land cover.
Therefore, human intervention has significantly influenced land use patterns over many
centuries, evolving its structure over time and space. In the present era, these changes have
accelerated due to factors such as agriculture and urbanization. Information regarding land use and
cover is essential for various planning and management tasks related to the Earth's surface,
providing crucial environmental data for scientific, resource management, policy purposes, and
diverse human activities.
Accurate understanding of land use and cover is imperative for the development planning
of any area. Consequently, a wide range of professionals, including earth system scientists, land
and water managers, and urban planners, are interested in obtaining data on land use and cover
changes, conversion trends, and other related patterns. The spatial dimensions of land use and
cover support policymakers and scientists in making well-informed decisions, as alterations in
these patterns indicate shifts in economic and social conditions. Monitoring such changes with the
help of Advanced technologies like Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems is
crucial for coordinated efforts across different administrative levels. Advanced technologies like
Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems
9
Changes in vegetation cover refer to variations in the distribution, composition, and overall
structure of plant communities across different temporal and spatial scales. These changes can
occur natural.
Executive Directors Chat Leveraging AI for Diversity, Equity, and InclusionTechSoup
Let’s explore the intersection of technology and equity in the final session of our DEI series. Discover how AI tools, like ChatGPT, can be used to support and enhance your nonprofit's DEI initiatives. Participants will gain insights into practical AI applications and get tips for leveraging technology to advance their DEI goals.
This presentation includes basic of PCOS their pathology and treatment and also Ayurveda correlation of PCOS and Ayurvedic line of treatment mentioned in classics.
How to Fix the Import Error in the Odoo 17Celine George
An import error occurs when a program fails to import a module or library, disrupting its execution. In languages like Python, this issue arises when the specified module cannot be found or accessed, hindering the program's functionality. Resolving import errors is crucial for maintaining smooth software operation and uninterrupted development processes.
Pengantar Penggunaan Flutter - Dart programming language1.pptx
Building the Garden Beds for the School Garden
1. Building the Garden Beds
Each schoolyard is different with unique needs and opportunities,
ranging from congested, urban and asphalt to spacious, rural and
pastoral. Teachers and administrators have a host of human factors
to consider in siting the garden at their school. The location should
also support the needs of the vegetables, herbs and fruits that will be
grown.
The optimum requirements for most garden plants are: direct sunlight
for a minimum of six-to-eight hours a day; ample available water;
good drainage, and nutrient rich soil. Good soil is the key to success
in the garden. It provides a medium for root growth including
nutrients, water, air and a home for many beneficial organisms.
Roots anchor the plant in the soil, absorb water and minerals, and
store excess food for future needs. There are two types of roots.
Fibrous roots spread out near the soil surface to capture water
and minerals. Taproots penetrate deeper into the soil to meet these
demands. Food is stored in both root types, although taproots provide
more concentrated food storage, such as is found in the carrot.
Existing soil can be amended to provide additional nutrients and
improve the drainage, aeration and water holding capacity. Start by
identifying the type of soil and collect samples to send to UMass
for soil testing. This will identify nutrient needs, pH and any
contamination with leads and other heavy metals. Soil test results may take up to six weeks. Follow the
recommendations and start planting.
If the soil is found to be contaminated, or if asphalt or construction fill is the only available medium in the
schoolyard, there are other gardening options that utilize soil that is newly brought to the site. Consider building
raised bed gardens above ground or on asphalt or try gardening in containers.
Filling the raised bed garden beds at the Alice Beals Elementary School in Springfield.
2. In-Ground Garden Beds
The advantage to creating your garden beds directly in-ground using existing soil are many. They will be less
expensive and easier to construct, requiring only the funds for soil testing, added soil amendments, and the
labor to dig the beds. In-ground garden beds also provide the ability to till the soil deeply enough to grow crops
with deep roots such as potatoes.
The garden can be prepared early in the spring as soon as the soil has dried out enough to begin working.
Strip the top two-to-three inches of sod and plants with a spade and remove any deep rooted weeds and rocks
with a hoe. Use a rototiller for larger spaces or dig by hand with a spade. Consider double digging to provide
a root zone as much as 24 inches, which is ideal for root crops and other garden vegetables.
Double Digging
The Double-Digging Method of garden bed preparation is based on the idea that when the soil is well prepared
and fed, plants will thrive. The soil in the bed is loosened, conditioned and fertilized to the depth of two feet.
First remove sod and plants, making sure to get as many roots as possible. Then divide the bed into one-foot
wide strips running the entire length.
Start at one end and dig a hole 1 foot square and 1 foot deep. Move the soil to the opposite end of the bed (it
will be used to fill the last hole.) Then loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole to the depth of another foot.
Add soil amendments such as compost (3-to-6” per hole), drainage materials and fertilizer, following the
directions on the label.
Dig a second hole next to the first one, the same size (1’ x 1’ x 1’). Put the soil into the hole that you dug
previously. Loosen the soil at the bottom of the second hole to the depth of another foot and then add soil
amendments.
Continue digging holes taking out soil to the depth of a foot, transferring it to the proceeding hole, loosening
the soil at the bottom of each new hole, and adding soil amendments, until you reach the end of your row. Then
turn and go back the other way. At the end of the bed, dig your final hole. Loosen the soil at the bottom, add
soil amendments, then backfill with the soil removed from the first hole dug.
Double Dug Beds newly planted with beans, lettuces, peppers and broccoli in mid-May.
3. Go over the bed again, mixing the amendments thoroughly into the soil. The finished bed will be slightly
mounded. Rake smooth and water thoroughly. Allow the bed to settle for up to two weeks. Add paths and
avoid walking on beds.
The same double dug beds in mid-June with broccoli and lettuces ready to harvest.
Plan ahead and cover the new garden area in the fall with a plastic tarp, rug or cardboard. By spring the grass
will be dead, and the soil can be tilled without having to remove the sod. Or try the Lasagna Method for
building up the soil described below. In-ground beds can also be planted with a cover crop in the fall of winter
rye, oats, wheat or clover. Dig these plants under in the spring to add an excellent source of nutrients and fast-decomposing
“green manure.” Whatever method you use, be sure to add lots of compost incorporated into
the soil of new gardens or spread on top of existing beds.
Lasagna Layering
The Lasagna Layering Method of garden bed preparation involves composting in place by building up
soil with layers of mulches. Lasagna gardens can be built on poor soil. Pick a spot out of strong winds with
adequate sun.
Gather a variety of green and brown mulches. “Green” mulches include grass clippings, fresh garden
cuttings, annual weeds without seeds, composted animal manure and seaweed. “Brown” mulches are chopped
materials such as fall leaves, straw, hay, shredded paper, used potting soil, sawdust and wood ash.
Stake the area and trim grass to the ground. If soil is contaminated, put down an impermeable barrier such as
landscape fabric.
Layer materials starting with cardboard or wet newspaper. Then layer brown and green materials as high as
you like. Put a shovel full of soil in between layers to activate microorganisms. Finish with a layer of compost,
wood ash or biochar.
Leave the layers to break down for several months. A little moisture will speed the process. You can also
speed decomposition by covering the beds with black plastic or a tarp. Try adjusting the brown to green ratio
to about 4/1 to create more heat.
4. Lasagna Layered bed prepared with cardboard and newspaper and topped with mulch and compost.
Raised Garden Beds
Raised beds make gardening possible on sites where growing plants would otherwise be impossible, such as
asphalt, rooftops, patios, rock ledges, steep slopes and when existing soil is contaminated, poorly drained or
consists of construction fill. These bottomless structures take more work initially and have more associated
costs, but once built, they are highly productive and easier to maintain, holding the soil above ground.
Since all soil for the raised beds is brought new to the site, optimum soil conditions for plant growth can
be achieved. Work with a local nursery to assure quality topsoil, compost and other soil amendments are
delivered.
Soil in these beds will
drain faster, be easier
to work, and will have
less weed and insect
problems. They will
warm up earlier in
the spring, raising
soil temperature 8-13
degrees allowing for
early planting. They
are also easier to reach
and maintain. Young
children will be able to
clearly see these beds,
reducing trampling.
Raised bed gardens newly built and planted in mid-April at the Manthela George School in Brockton.
5. If the raised bed will be sitting on top soil that is suitable for vegetables, consider loosening the soil below the
bed to a depth of one foot to provide for additional root growth. If the soil is contaminated, add a landscape
fabric barrier between the soil and the raised bed. For sites where the soil is impaired or unworkable, plan to
construct garden beds that are deep enough to permit the widest range of vegetables.
Building the Raised Bed
A raised bed is a bottomless frame set into a shallow trench. The sides can be most any durable building
material including rock, brick, concrete, inter-locking blocks and recycled plastic timbers. The most common
material is lumber. Rot resistant hemlock, cedar or redwood will last longer than soft woods such as pine.
Avoid pressure treated wood preserved with toxins as well as creosote-treated railroad ties. Use galvanized or
stainless steel screws or bolts to put the bed together.
Choose a flat location in full sun on soil, gravel or asphalt. This will hold the sides of the beds even. If
available, a north-south orientation takes best advantage of available light. A two-to-three foot wide by six-to-
eight foot long bed will be wide enough to support sprawling plants, but narrow enough to reach easily
from both sides. The ideal height is one-to-two foot tall for most crops. If possible, build more than one bed
to make it easier to rotate crops and meet the watering needs of specific plants. Leave paths of at least two
feet between the beds.
Begin by removing the weeds, turf and rocks. Level the soil or asphalt. Outline the bed dimensions with a
chalk or strings. Dig with vertical strokes along the outline, just deep enough to bury about half of the first
course of lumber. If the soil below the bed is poorly drained, dig down a few inches deeper and put a layer of
coarse stone or pea gravel at the bottom. Then add a layer of landscape fabric above the gravel to hold the soil
separate from the gravel. If the soil is on asphalt or compacted gravel, put down a two inch layer of gravel in
the bottom of the bed covered with landscape fabric to allow for good drainage and soil separation.
Putting the raised bed planters together at the Alice Beals Elementary School in Springfield.
6. Whether planning a simple wooden frame or a raised bed with corner posts and a cap rail, measure the
amount of wood needed before your purchase. Cut the lumber according to measurements. Build each wall
separately, then fasten them together with galvanized or stainless steel screws at each corner, which will hold
tighter and longer than nails. You may choose to sink posts into the ground for stability, either at the inside
corners of the bed or halfway along the side walls. These help hold the bed in place, but can also reduce the
outward pressure that a full bed exerts on the frame, which can dislodge the lumber after a single season. A cap
railing that runs around the top of the bed will tie everything together.
Work with a local nursery or garden center to learn the best way to obtain good quality top soil with high
organic content. It should clump together easily when pressed in your hand, but it should also break apart
easily. This provides structure for the roots while allowing them to get the needed nutrients and water. If
available soil is not high in organic matter, be sure to order additional compost. Fill the frames to the top with
soil and you are ready to begin planting the garden.
Raised Bed Container image from http://images.taunton.com/enewsletters/vg/kg08-raised-beds-09.jpg
The Raised Bed Gardens at the Jackson Street School in Northampton in mid-Summer.
7. Container Gardens
Gardening in containers provides a means to control the environment, allowing for optimization of the
growing culture for plants when those conditions can not be met naturally. It also provides opportunities for
the gardener to overcome challenges that might limit the garden scope or area.
Plants can be grown where soil is poor in nutrient or water holding capacity, polluted with toxins or heavy
metals, compacted by foot and construction traffic, infested with nematodes and other soil borne insects and
diseases, or where competition from tree roots limits growth. The growing medium can be amended to
provide optimum drainage, nutrients, pH or water holding capacity to meet the specific requirements of each
individual plant. Vigorous growers such as mints can also be planted in pots to control their growth.
Place each where it will receive the best light, whether sun or shade. Frost-sensitive plants can spend the
winter indoors. Vegetables can be started indoorsto extend the season. Since the soil in pots heats up quickly,
you can get a jump on the season by using containers.
Containers are well suited to locations with limited outdoor space and where a traditional garden is impossible.
A window sill, patio, deck, balcony, rooftop, driveway, stairway or even the front stoop offer opportunities for
the small-scale garden. Vertical planters, trellices and hanging baskets take the garden upwards. Many fruits
and vegetables have been specifically bred for container culture.
Some of the same elements that make container gardening ideal can add environmental stress for the plant.
Pots hold only a limited amount of soil in which roots can spread. Soil temperature in containers is higher than
that in the ground. Darker pots will heat up more quickly than lighter ones, and are better suited for the shade.
Pots can dry out very quickly, most will require watering at least once a day.
Students garden in containers on the rooftop at the Josiah Quincy Elementary School in Boston.
8. Other Garden Factors
Number of Garden Beds: It is recommended to have at least one garden bed for each class or group. Plant
perennial crops such as strawberries and herbs in a separate bed from annuals, so that the garden can be tilled
easily next year. Taller crops such as corn and sunflowers may require their own garden space. Start small
and grow the garden.
Width and Shape: A standard garden bed is rectangular and two- to-three feet wide by eight-to-ten feet in
length. Children should be able to reach across the beds without standing in them, which would compact the
soil. For preschool and younger, consider a bed 18 inches wide. Involve children in designing the garden. If
they prefer circular beds, wedges or other shapes, plan so that all parts of the garden are easily accessible from
outside the space.
The Garden Paths: should go all the way around each garden bed. Paths that are a minimum of two feet
wide will allow for wheelbarrows, children working, foot traffic and trailings plants. Paths may be made from
grass, wood chips or soil covered with straw or hay.
Mulch is an essential element in reducing the maintenance in the garden. It holds moisture in the soil decreasing
the need for watering, protects young plants from the wind and lessens weeds. Use compost, grass clippings
(if lawn is untreated), pine needles, salt marsh hay or straw from a local source that can guarantee it is weed
free.
Trellis: Put trellises on the north side of the garden so that they don’t shade your plants. They will also block
the wind. Add posts or PVC pipe to the four corners of garden beds so that you can add frost protection or
prevent plundering by hungry birds.
Wash your hands, tools and containers before harvesting anything edible.
9. Resources for Building the Garden Beds
Local and National Organizations
Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources
www.mass.gov/agr
Massachusetts Flower Growers Association
www.massflowergrowers.com
Massachusetts Nursery & Landscape Association
www.mnla.com
National Gardening Association
www.garden.org & www.kidsgardening.org
UMass Extension
www.umassextension.org/index.php/information/
gardening
UMass SoilTesting www.umass.edu/soiltest/
USDA Food and Nutrition Program
www.fns.usda.gov - Grow it Books
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone MAP
www.usna.usda.gov/Hardzone/ushzmap.html
US Botanic Garden - Planning & Planting
www.schoolgardenwizard.org
Other Curriculum & Resources Websites
American Community Garden Association
www.communitygarden.org/docs/how-to_manual.pdf
American Horticulture Society www.ahs.org
California Agriculture Foundation
Gardens Curriculum www.cfaitc.org/gardensforlearning
Gro Edibles
www.groedibles.com/2011/02/how-to-build-a-raised-bed/
Junior Master Gardener Program http://jmgkids.us
My Healthy School
www.myhealthyschool.com/gardens/starting.php
New York City’s School Garden Program
http://growtolearn.org
Project Life Lab Science & School Gardens
www.lifelab.org
School Garden Weekly
http://schoolgardenweekly.com
Soil & Water Conservation Society www.swcs.org
School Garden Transformations
www.schoolgrounds.ca/projects.html
USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service
www.nrcs.usda.gov and http://soils.usda.gov/
Vegetable Garden Basics - Rutgers
www.mgofmc.org/docs/VegGardBasics08.pdf
Raised Bed Container image - http://images.taunton.
com/enewsletters/vg/kg08-raised-beds-09.jpg
Information for this resource guide was taken from the resources listed above.
P. O. Box 345 Seekonk, MA 02771
www.aginclassroom.org
Please Visit the Massachusetts Agriculture in the Classroom Website
to tell us how you used this Building the Garden Beds Resource for the School Garden.
Thank you to the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources
for a Specialty Crops Grant that supported development of this
How-to-Guide for Getting Started in the School Garden.