A Teacher’s Guide to Reviving an Abandoned School Garden

Hey there! If you've ever been handed the reins to an abandoned school garden or one that was set up without your input, you might have felt a bit overwhelmed. And if that happens this school year, you might feel that way. Don’t worry! Reviving a neglected garden can be a rewarding experience with the right approach. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process and turn that garden into a thriving learning space for your students.

1. Assess What’s Already There

First things first: take a good look at the garden. What types of plants are growing? Are they perennials, which will stick around year after year, or annuals, which need to be replanted each season? Knowing what’s in the garden will help you determine what you need to keep or remove and give you a clearer idea of the space you’re working with.

2. Understand Your Growing Zone

Check out your local growing zone. This will determine what you can grow and when. In colder climates, your growing season might be short, limiting your options to spring and summer. In warmer areas, you might have the opportunity to grow in both fall and spring. Knowing your zone helps with planning your garden's activities throughout the year.

3. Check the Watering System

Evaluate the garden’s watering setup. Is there a nearby outdoor tap with a functioning hose? A lightweight hose with a multi-setting nozzle is ideal. Heavy or inadequate hoses can make watering a chore and are not student-friendly. If you have a soaker hose or drip irrigation, make sure it's working properly. Remember, sprinklers and watering cans aren’t the best choices for school gardens. In fact they are the worst!

4. Evaluate Sunlight Exposure

Sunlight is crucial for a successful garden. Check if the garden gets full sun or if there are any tall trees or structures casting shadows. In the northern hemisphere, gardens with walls on the south side might receive no direct sunlight, which is detrimental for plant growth. In southern regions, the situation is reversed. Make sure your garden gets ample sunlight to support healthy plant growth.

5. Assess Soil Condition

Take a look at the soil. Is it bare and eroded or covered in weeds? Rich, dark soil is ideal, while poor soil can be improved with organic compost. If you suspect toxins in the soil, avoid digging and plant in fresh, organic soil. For weedy areas, sheet mulching is a great technique to manage weeds and enrich the soil.

6. Integrate the Garden into Your Curriculum

This might be the most important step. Consider how the garden can be incorporated into your curriculum. Whether you’re a homeroom teacher or a subject specialist, connect garden activities to your lessons. This approach ensures that the garden becomes a hands-on learning tool and integrates seamlessly into your teaching, avoiding extra work outside of class hours.

Final Thoughts

Reviving a school garden can be a fulfilling project, especially when you align it with your teaching goals. Start by addressing these six key questions, and you’ll be on your way to creating a garden that enhances your students’ learning experience.

For a more detailed discussion on this topic, check out Episode 9 of the “School Gardens with Ease” podcast. I dive deeper into these steps and provide additional tips for making the most of your school garden. Happy gardening!