DeSoto ISD elementary students practice sustainable gardening and environmental science

DESOTO – Students in PreK through 5th grade at Amber Terrace, Cockrell Hill and The Meadows had a chance to get their hands dirty this school year as part of a garden revitalization project. The initiative aimed to educate children about the origins of food and the significance of healthy eating. The students cultivated a variety of plants using both hydroponic and traditional outdoor gardens, learning how to care for the plants, observing their growth from seeds to maturity, and experiencing the joy of harvesting their own fresh produce. Related Stories The hydroponic garden system enabled students to grow plants without soil, using nutrient-rich water instead. This method allowed them to observe root development and gain an intimate understanding of the plant life cycle. In the outdoor garden, students were introduced to more conventional gardening techniques, learning to use various garden tools. They prepared the soil, planted seeds and seedlings, and took on the responsibilities of weeding and watering the plants as they flourished under the Texas sun. At the culmination of the year and the gardening experience, students harvested ripe produce such as tomatoes, peppers and leafy greens from the gardens. Their experiences not only imparted valuable lessons but...