Worms, worms, worms

On the last winter interest learning day we talked about decomposition and how compost is made.  We also talked about the role worms play in breaking down organic waste and also their role in aerating the soil.  After reading a book about composting, everyone lent a hand in building a worm bin to compost food waste from the school.  After the bin was built, we enjoyed some time outside digging worms and made individual 'worm farms' in mason jars for each student to take home.

The kids are eager to get their hands on a worm.

Our finished worm bin.  Newspaper strips were soaked in water and wrung out and then the worms were placed on the 'bedding' with a bit of food waste buried inside.  The container is an 8 gallon plastic tub with holes drilled in the bottom for drainage and the top edge and lid for ventilation.

Another garden day!

Dexter is SO excited to see that his lettuce seeds have sprouted!

The start of sweet potato slips.  We placed the potatoes 1/3 of the way in water.  Soon they will grow vines from the eyes, called 'slips'.  The slips will be cut from the potato and set in water.  There they will grow roots.  From here we can plant them in the garden in late May and with good luck we will harvest the sweet potatoes in the fall!

Our lettuce seeding from week 1; some have started to sprout.

Our light rack where we are growing our projects since it is still so cold outside.  Light racks are a great way to get things started early as they provide heat, light, and protection from the elements.