Once your garden is in place, it is important to maintain the momentum you had when it started. Here are a few tips for keeping your, garden growing strong:
- Establish garden guidelines to regulate the use of the garden and post them in a visible location.
- Remember to send thank you notes for all donations and for volunteers. Hold garden parties and other special events to show appreciation, to give recognition and to celebrate everyone's hard work.
- Do not overwhelm your students with more garden than they can take care of. Use plants that will mature quickly and grow well in your area. Keep your lessons fun and include students in decision making. After a harvest, make sure to plan a special event like a salad lunch to celebrate.
- Create a year round calendar that includes planting dates, special events, volunteer schedules and other important dates. This will keep your garden organized and be a way for others to keep up with your activities.
- Take pictures and show them off! Use your vegetables in the school cafeteria and at garden parties. Keep your garden in the spotlight! You must maintain public relations efforts to continue support. Write a newsletter or have monthly meetings, anything to inform your supporters and attract new ones.
- Let each class create and add to your garden. Since the original group involved will move on, you must continue to instill the feeling of ownership in your students.
- Plan for the summers. Find volunteers to care for the garden when the students are on break. Make sure to maintain an acceptable appearance year-round to please administrators and neighbors!
- Enjoy and have fun!
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