Hi friends

Welcome back to this week’s blog, where I will update you all on week one of the program. This week’s activities:

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Soil Testing & Growing Microgreens

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    Unlocking the secrets hidden beneath our feet, soil testing is like a detective investigation for your garden. Analyzing soil samples reveals the unique composition, nutrient levels, and pH balance of the soil. Why is this important? Well, it’s the key to unlocking a flourishing garden. With soil test results in hand, you can provide your plants with exactly what they need, like a personalized menu of nutrients. It’s like giving them a VIP treatment, ensuring optimal growth and minimizing the risk of nutrient imbalances. Plus, soil testing helps detect any hidden villains like contaminants or drainage issues that could hinder your plant’s success. Think of it as a superhero power for your garden, guiding you to sustainable and fruitful results.

   SOIL consists of minerals like sand, silt, and clay, which give it its texture and structure. Additionally, organic matter such as decaying plant material and microorganisms plays a vital role in soil fertility and nutrient cycling. Knowing the type of soil you have is like having a secret decoder ring for successful planting. Different soil types have unique properties that affect water drainage, nutrient retention, and aeration. Sandy soils drain quickly but may struggle to retain moisture and nutrients. Clay soils, on the other hand, hold water well but can become compacted and poorly drained. Loamy soils strike a perfect balance, offering good drainage and nutrient-holding capacity. Understanding your soil type allows you to tailor your gardening practices accordingly. It helps you choose the right plants that thrive in your soil’s specific conditions. For example, plants that prefer well-drained soil would thrive in sandy soils, while moisture-loving plants would appreciate clay soils. The soil texture can be determined using a series of questions like the above!

Growing Microgreens presents an exciting opportunity to produce delicious and nutritious foods in a remarkably short period of time. Whether you have a vast backyard or limited space in a small apartment, microgreens offer a convenient and accessible option for cultivating a wide variety of edible plants. With a rapid growth cycle of one to three weeks, participants can enjoy a bountiful harvest and continuously experiment with a wide variety of plants ,from arugula and sprouts to sweet pea shoots and cilantro. Growing Microgreens in the session serves as a great educational tool for children and beginners, providing hands-on learning experiences and fostering a deeper appreciation for sustainable food production.

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Reflecting

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    During the activity this week, we encountered a particular challenge, which was also a direct obstacle that required careful consideration. Due to the clay-like composition of the local soil, individuals often resort to container gardening as a viable alternative for initiating plant growth. However, the reliance on significant quantities of potting soil has presented an issue in terms of accessibility and affordability. This is simply because potting soil is really, really expensive.

In response to the challenges at hand, it’s important to factor in all possible solutions as we think of ways to provide more resources to our engaged communities. We recognize the need for innovative approaches to address the financial and practical constraints of acquiring resources like potting soil.

Possible suggestions to tackle this issue include:

Exploring DIY alternatives: Investigating the feasibility of creating homemade potting soil mixes using locally available resources and organic materials, providing participants with a more affordable and sustainable option.

Collaborating with local gardening communities: Engaging in partnerships and discussions with gardening enthusiasts, community organizations, or agricultural centers to share insights and exchange ideas on cost-effective gardening practices, including solutions for affordable potting soil.

Seeking grants or funding opportunities: Actively pursuing grants or funding programs that specifically support community gardening initiatives, including provisions for affordable gardening supplies such as potting soil. This avenue could provide financial assistance and alleviate the financial burdens faced by participants.

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What did the community

think?

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      During our workshops, we found that most of our participants already had their own gardens, whether they were using raised beds or containers. We felt it was important to explain not only what soil is made of but also how its pH level can affect the types of crops they were growing or planning to grow. We wanted to give them a clear picture of soil composition, including stuff like organic matter, minerals, and water. And we made sure to stress the significance of understanding soil pH. See, pH levels can actually impact which nutrients are available to plants. By sharing this knowledge, we aimed to empower our participants to make smart choices about their gardens. They could use this information to optimize their gardening practices and get the most out of their crops.

First of all, what does soil pH indicate?  

Here is a breakdown of the different pH ranges and what they mean:

pH 0-3: Extremely acidic soil. This range is very rare in natural conditions and is often associated with highly acidic environments, such as mine drainage or severely polluted areas.

pH 4-6: Moderately acidic soil. Many plants prefer slightly acidic soil, and this range can be suitable for a variety of acid-loving plants, such as blueberries or azaleas.

pH 7: Neutral soil. This pH level is considered ideal for most plants, as it provides a balanced environment for nutrient uptake.

pH 8-10: Moderately alkaline soil. Some plants, like asparagus or lilacs, prefer slightly alkaline soil. However, excessive alkalinity can lead to nutrient imbalances and hinder plant growth.

pH 11-14: Highly alkaline soil. This range is quite uncommon in natural conditions. Alkaline soil can pose challenges for plant growth, as it can inhibit the availability of certain essential nutrients.

For this activity, we only went up to the neutral range! 

❀ Most Popular Question: How would I make my soil less acidic?:

Understanding soil pH is essential for successful gardening because different plants have varying preferences for acidity levels. Some plants thrive in acidic soil, while others prefer a more neutral environment. Adjusting soil pH can be done using various methods. For example, if your soil is too alkaline and you’re growing acid-loving plants like blueberries or azaleas, you can use coffee grounds to make it more acidic. Conversely, if your soil is too acidic and you’re growing plants that prefer a neutral pH, such as lettuce or beans, you can add crushed eggshells to increase alkalinity. Other options include using lime to raise pH or sulfur/peat moss to lower it. By understanding and modifying soil pH, you can create an optimal environment for healthy plant growth and ensure the success of your crops.

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During the workshop, participants were highly engaged in this week’s activities. Planting microgreens emerged as a favorite among them, as they eagerly filled multiple containers provided with the given soil. This hands-on experience sparked their enthusiasm. Another aspect that resonated well with participants was the opportunity to have their soils checked. They brought along their own soil samples to be tested, appreciating the chance to gain insights into their soil quality. To further support their gardening journey, we were able to supply the participants with misting sprays for their new microgreen collections!

While participants actively participated and enjoyed the activities, there were some areas of questions regarding soil pH. Specifically, after having their soil checked, participants sought clarification on the impact of soil acidity on their gardens, expressing concerns about whether high or low acidity could harm their plants.

Fortunately, the activities designed for the workshop were well-received by beginning gardeners. As a couple of them had suggested a composting device called “Vitamix”:

This device could help participants with their compost efforts! It is a bit on the pricey side but one of our participants got fantastic usage out of it!

Overall, the workshop successfully contributed to the learning objectives by providing hands-on experiences and practical knowledge. Participants gained valuable skills in seed sowing, soil preparation, and plant care through the engaging activity of planting microgreens. Additionally, the opportunity to have their soil tested and receive guidance on soil acidity fostered a deeper understanding of the crucial role of soil quality in supporting healthy plant growth.

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Overall, the Seed to Supper program aims to address food scarcity challenges, promote health, and empower BIPOC communities through gardening. By continually refining our resources, gathering feedback, and evaluating the program’s impact, we hope to create a sustainable and inclusive gardening community in Niagara County.

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Bye for now from my pet plant and me!

Hi friends!

Welcome back to this week’s blog, where I will update you all on week one of the program. This week’s activity:

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Design A Garden!

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    Designing a vegetable garden is an exciting endeavor that requires careful planning and consideration. One innovative approach that can help you create a thriving garden is using life-size plant footprints. These footprints allow you to visualize the space needed for mature vegetable plants, making your garden design feel real and tangible. When plants have sufficient space to grow, they thrive and become healthier. By utilizing plant footprints, you can ensure that your vegetables have the room they need to flourish. This leads to better yields and reduces the risk of pests and diseases. But it doesn’t stop there. With succession planting, you can take your garden to the next level. By planning both spring and summer planting using plant footprints, you can optimize your garden space and enjoy a continuous harvest throughout the growing season. This technique enables you to grow more vegetables in the same area, maximizing your garden’s productivity. By incorporating these strategies, you can create a vegetable garden that not only looks beautiful but also provides a bountiful harvest. With life-size plant footprints and succession planting, you’ll be well on your way to a thriving and efficient garden.

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Reflecting

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In this experience, I’ve found myself pondering important questions and reflecting on the goals I initially set for myself, both personally and professionally. It’s been a journey of self-discovery, and as I contemplate what I bring to the table, the word “purposeful” comes to mind. How can I apply the knowledge I’ve gained in the classroom to make a meaningful impact? It’s natural to feel apprehensive about making mistakes, staying silent, or not fully understanding the community’s needs.

To address these concerns, I’ve explored the skills I possess and how they can help me overcome these fears. Having grown up in an agricultural background since immigrating from Nigeria in 2008, farming runs deep in my family. My grandfather, his grandfather, and even my father have all been involved in farming. This rich agricultural heritage has given me a unique perspective. I’ve realized that my experience and knowledge in farming practices can be a valuable asset in developing Niagara County-specific resources for the Seed to Supper program and engaging with BIPOC participants in a meaningful way.

Through this internship, I’ve had the privilege of connecting with diverse individuals, including members of the Tuscarora Nation, master gardeners from various specialties in the Niagara County region, and families participating in the Seed to Supper program. By working closely with these groups, I gain invaluable insights into their specific needs and ensure that the resources and activities we provide are culturally inclusive and relatable.

Moreover, I’m excited about the opportunity to network with colleagues from organizations such as the SNAP-ED program. Collaborating with them allows me to share knowledge, learn effective gardening techniques, and gain a deeper understanding of the unique food challenges faced by BIPOC communities. Building connections with other organizations involved in similar initiatives not only expands our reach but also opens doors for potential partnerships that can further amplify the impact of the Seed to Supper program.

In this journey, I am both eager and confident to make a difference by combining my purposeful approach, agricultural background, and meaningful connections with individuals and organizations!

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What did the community

think?

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Our approach was asking participants what kind of garden they wanted to see and create, so we found that sharing personal examples and asking questions that encouraged participants to make personal connections to the activity worked well, fostering meaningful discussions and deepening their understanding of where they feel they should begin. I believe it can be a little overwhelming when a lot of information is suddenly presented to you, even if you are a beginner or someone with more experience it can still be confusing and daunting—

“Am I doing this right? “what if my idea of a garden doesn’t match the lesson?”, “Does my garden have to be big?”

This is why it was extremely important that we asked participants first what kind of garden they were interested in, what kind of plants they wanted to grow, and what their goals were in the long term!

By redirecting participants to relevant sections of the lesson during our presentation, we were able to cater to their individual needs and ensure they got the most out of the experience. As a result, the activity became more relatable and practical for them. One standout moment was when we introduced a hands-on activity involving plant footprints in a makeshift 3×3 tape garden. This activity provided them with a tangible experience, allowing them to imagine and interact with a life-sized garden. It was especially exciting because some participants and even master gardeners were already working with similar setups at home. The activity brought the concept of gardening to life and created a shared sense of excitement and connection among everyone involved. For example, concepts like shading became easier to grasp, as individuals could see what tall plants needed to go on the northern side of the garden to allow for the smaller and shorter plants to take in more sun.

While most learning objectives were successfully addressed, rather than challenging, there were a few instances where a similar question rang throughout the sessions:

❀ Most Popular Question: How do I use companion plants?

Companion planting is like arranging a garden party where plants mingle and support each other to thrive. It’s all about harnessing the power of plant friendships for the ultimate gardening success. Picture this: some plants act as bodyguards, attracting pests away from your precious veggies. Marigolds, for instance, are like superhero bouncers that lure aphids and nematodes, keeping your veggies safe and sound.

Some plants have a secret talent for repelling or confusing pests. It’s like having a natural bug repellent in your garden. Basil, rosemary, and mint deter pesky insects like mosquitoes, aphids, and cabbage worms. And planting strong-scented pals like onions or garlic near vulnerable crops can make it hard for pests to find their target.

Companion planting can also be described as a nutrient matchmaker. Some plants have special powers to fix nitrogen, converting it into a form that other plants can feast on. Legumes, such as beans and peas, are nitrogen-fixing. Teaming them up with nitrogen-hungry plants like leafy greens or brassicas, it’s a great way to offer up lots of nutrients!

Successful companion planting is all about finding the perfect plant matches. Some plants get along like a house on fire, while others might not see eye to leaf. Consider their height, habits, nutrient needs, and compatibility with light and water.

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Overall, the Seed to Supper program aims to address food scarcity challenges, promote health, and empower BIPOC communities through gardening. By continually refining our resources, gathering feedback, and evaluating the program’s impact, we hope to create a sustainable and inclusive gardening community in Niagara County.

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Bye for now, from the 4-H Training Center