Year 9 Food Forest Progress and Insights

For the first semester of year 9 Agriculture, students have been focusing on the world of soil. Students have been learning about soil structure & biology and also looking at case studies of different soil profiles across the EP and how this effects agricultural practices.

As a practical implementation of the soil theory, students planned and planted the initial stages of a ‘Food Forest’ in the AG block. In the long run, a ‘food forest’ should have seven layers of canopy, all with a purpose in either food production, nutrient provision or defense against weather & pests. Mr Rowe decided he’d put his money where his mouth is and promised to invite parents in for a tour at the end of the semester.

This end rolled around, and unfortunately the cold dormancy of winter came with it… Leaving Mr Rowe feeling (and looking) a little sheepish, when those legendary parents came in to visit.

But the beginnings are here, good things take time, and hopefully students have learnt lessons in patience and hard-work. Students started with a weed filled crust of land, (see photo) and spent the initial few weeks digging out old soil, controlling weeds and bringing in new material. They now have fresh soil, pathways & have plenty of new trees in the ground, awaiting the warmth of spring like the rest of us.

A massive thanks to by those parents who made the time to come, and to those who couldn’t make it but expressed their interest to their kids. In a few years time, hopefully we’ll have something to offer for harvest at most times of the year!

From Mr Rowe & the Year 9 AG Monkeys