Our 3rd grade students planted the tower with kale, lettuce, chard and a variety of herbs. 2 weeks ago we started measuring the length of our plants in the tower and compared them to the length of the same plants planted in our garden beds outside. We discussed why scientist came up with the system of a hydroponic tower. Next we will taste our lettuce to find out if there is a difference between conventional growing and hydroponic systems.
Our 3rd grade students helped assembling the Tower a few weeks ago and are now measuring the new plants and comparing them to their plants outside in the garden beds.
The 'Machan Healthy Tower Team" met today and decided on the following plan:
When school starts in August, we will choose one class to set up the tower. It will be placed in the cafeteria (if approved by the nutrition department) or the library. This way the whole school will be able to see and follow the growth of the plants in the tower. We will be planting herbs in the tower as well as in the Machan Garden. Students grades 2-6 will be observing the growth of the plants in the tower as well as in the garden and compare the plants in the hydroponic system to the plants grown in soil for overall growth (size, color) as well as taste. Some grade levels will be in charge of maintaining the healthy tower during their garden class time. We will be using the library for research on origin of herbs and different uses. Nutrition education for students will take place during garden classes with the help of the district nutrition department and the Maricopa County Health Department (Member of the team). Parent nutrition education will be a part of a new committee starting this school year.
