When we visualize gardens, what do we think of? The beautiful green scenery, or the ripe plants/crops? Don’t you ever find yourself wondering how much work it takes to maintain a healthy garden, and the proper materials for it? Whether it means indulging in hard work, and even entertainment? The stress of it all, the enjoyment of it all, and to see the overall progress in one’s garden? 

Well, if you’re interested, There are a few things to know when it comes to gardening. Kristen Maciel, an agriculture teacher who works on the school garden, gives input on what you may need when it comes to gardening and the general experience of it. She said, “When it comes to gardening, you could only imagine that there’s a lot of nurturing for it and there’s a process for it all. Whether it’s materials, and the gentle care for someone’s garden.”

Maciel continues to say that, “There is daily maintenance like watering the plants and lawn but most of those are on timers. Weekly maintenance is mowing the lawn and raking leaves. Every so often, the weeds will get sprayed.” 

She also states that when it comes to materializing, “Rakes, shovels, hoses, sprinklers, gloves, lawn mower, weed eater, trash bins are the main ones I can think of that we use weekly.” 

When it comes to the stress or worries that come with gardening she said, “I only worry over the summer. Students are in charge of watering the plants that get taken to the fair so if someone doesn’t show up, they risk dying.” 

The past caregiver of the school garden had been Kattie Schmidig, who teaches Ag Chemistry, Floral Design, and Advanced Floral Design at HHS. Schmidig stated, “It takes a lot of work and is definitely a team effort. 

Furthermore, she speaks on the essentials for a garden. “Some of the necessities are a greenhouse, irrigation supplies, planters, a tractor, containers and of course- plants!”

When it comes to how eventful gardening can be, Ms. Schmidig expressed, “I find it fun but stressful at times depending on the weather or tasks that need to be completed.”