So we’re all waiting for Spring to arrive on the south coast.  With all the winter crops now finished and the garlic going strong, we prepare yet again for summer plantings of corn, pumpkins, melons, tomatoes and more.

The school orchard is looking as abundant as ever, with heavy fruit loading on most trees.

Class 4 have been busy learning the parts of the plant, and have grown a beautiful crop of kale.  We made kale chips and a noodle stir-fry (which was thoroughly enjoyed by most of the children).  The class have enjoyed working on their own small patches surrounding the circular vegetable garden.  Come this summer, we should see sunflowers and dahlias waving their colourful heads in the warm breeze.

Class 5 and 6 have delved into understanding PH and its effect on growing plants.  They tested many substances (like sea water, bicarb, orange juice, eggs and bananas) and then ordered them on a scale of acid to alkaline.  Both classes have been working hard in the orchard and larger vegetable patch trying to keep the kike at bay!  With both areas now fully reticulated, we look forward to continuing the crops that will be sown over the summer holidays.

Having done Botany as a main lesson in class, Class 5 have extended their knowledge of flowering plants in the field, doing botanical drawings and eating flowering plants!

Class 6 have also studied pollination, one of the most magical aspects of plant life.