Aprons, Weather, and Peas: A H.O.P.E.-Filled Day of Learning
The day began in the classroom at Oriole Park Elementary, where students eagerly welcomed the H.O.P.E. Gardens team. Mrs. Smith led a lively lesson from Growing Healthy Habits on how different kinds of weather—like frost, drought, heat, or too much rain—can affect a garden. Students were all ears, recalling facts from past lessons and sharing […]
The Case of the Missing Dressing: A Great Garden Detective Adventure
It was a day full of mystery and flavor as students put on their detective hats for the Great Garden Detective Adventure! Their mission? To solve a recipe mystery and uncover the secret to a delicious, healthy meal. The adventure began with a lesson on the benefits of eating dark leafy greens—especially spinach. Students learned […]
Carrot Detectives on the Case!
By Kathy Bego, Garden Educator This month, our 3rd and 4th graders put on their investigator caps to uncover the secrets of carrots! Like true detectives, they used their key sleuthing skills—curiosity, attention to detail, and perseverance—to explore this vibrant vegetable. 🔍 The Investigation Begins: Andrea guided older students through a colorful slide presentation, reintroducing […]
Julie’s Fresh Heirloom Tomato Salad
This tomato salad recipe is inspired by my nature-based garden in Michigan, where a variety of heirloom tomatoes brings vibrant color and fresh flavor to every dish. We started gardening this way over a decade ago, and now it’s a lush, thriving space that yields beautiful fruit with minimal effort. At this time of year, […]
Recipe: Fruit Kabobs
Ingredients 1 cup watermelon chunks 1 cup pineapple chunks 1 cup grapes 1 cup strawberries 2 kiwi (peeled and cut in quarters) 6” bamboo skewers 1 cup light strawberry yogurt Directions Place fruit chunks on bamboo skewers. Place fruit kabobs on platter. Place yogurt in bowl. Serve kabobs with yogurt on the side. Source: USDA […]