Vision

For students to understand the ease of growing fresh vegetables at home, I wanted the students to see how simple the idea of planting crops at home to eat and incorporate into their cooking.

Hydroponics also make it possible to grow in locations where poor soil conditions or limited space prevent growing plants traditionally in soil.

The growing method can grow more plants in less space compared to traditional outside gardens. Hydroponic units make use of vertical space, resulting in increased planting density and food production.

Action

Our class decided on a hydroponic growing tower after lots of research. The class really wanted to see plants grow but understood the growing season in Ontario is during the summer. Students wanted to see plants and vegetables grow all year in the class and have an opportunity to learn about them. We received the funding and then ordered the tower from EXO: Home Hydroponic System. The students picked out four types of vegetables to grow. They selected Kale, Spinach, Swiss Chard, and Basil for the first attempt. We are in the process of growing the seedlings in a tray which will then be transplanted into the tower. The class is so excited about this in the next week.

Reflection & Celebration

The class is so amazed at how simply and quickly the seedlings started sprouting. Most of the class has not seen a seed planted and then sprout. Seeing their reactions to the little sprout was just amazing. The students were in shock at how quickly it happened. They are so excited to see the plants grow in the tower. I wish I had applied for the money sooner, but it was challenging to work through the various videos and zoom meetings with a busy school year.