WHAT’S the best way to get children to eat broad beans? Let them grow the plants themselves and there’s no stopping them.
Six months after the first sod was turned in Eaglehawk Primary School’s Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden, the program’s success is already evident.
The students love their new outdoor classroom, they love the weeding and they even love the beans.
The garden and its young workers were recognised last week at the Bendigo Show.
A dozen eggs from the resident Silky chickens was awarded a first prize, and children received ribbons for their garden art.
The garden is a work of art in itself. Under the guidance of garden specialist Brian Hosking, the children have helped transform a dry patch of earth into a flourishing, bio-dynamic vegetable and fruit Eden.
Carved bollards by local artist Ben Winspear add an interesting, earthy element among the young plants, and garden benches invite workers to rest awhile and take in their achievement.
Right now, lettuce, silverbeet, rocket, as well as those broad beans, are ready to harvest.
"The kids have been eating things straight off the plant, anything they grow themselves has a bit of extra appeal, and often it’s things the kids haven’t eaten
before," Brian said.
"At first it was a bit tough because they didn’t know what to expect but now they’re starting to harvest things and they’re seeing the results of their work."
Students have started cooking classes using their school-grown produce.
Classes are being held at Eaglehawk Secondary College, while a custom-built kitchen is completed at the primary school.
As impressive as the garden is, Brian said there was still much to be achieved.
"Everyone loves it but I see how much more work there is to do to achieve my goals," he said.
"But from just what’s been done in a short time – I know it will be an amazing garden."
The school is looking for volunteers to help in the garden and the kitchen.
Brian said helping out in the garden was also a great way to learn about bio-dynamic gardening methods.
To raise funds for the project, one of the state’s best gardens will open its doors this month.
Wattle Creek in Headworks Road, Torrumbarry, featured in Australia’s Open Garden Scheme in 2005.
Wattle Creek will be open from 11am to 4.30pm on Sunday, November 11. Entry is $5 per adult, and children are free.
