Growing and Feeding

Whilst the chilly weather is around we need to remember to help the birds that visit our garden. The treehouse has been relocated to the mud kitchen and so there is a fabulous platform we can bird watch from. 
Children helped to make bird balls using suet and seeds.
It was a joy to watch all the visitors come to nibble - as well as a few cheeky squirrels. 
At this time of year we need to prepare the garden for spring planting.
Ahead of planting our delicious radishes and garlic,  children were supported to prepare the beds. They used rakes and trowels, forks and hoes and also their fingers to dig and turn over the soil.
Children sustained concentration, communicated and showed joy in what they were doing. 
Next they planted the radish seeds and garlic cloves carefully (they have come back every single day to check the growth!) As we have lots of visitors to the garden (foxes and birds) the children helped to net the bed to protect the seeds. 
Regular watering is now part of the children's routine and patience is needed as it may take
6-7 weeks for our radishes to appear. 
We are also planning to plant a variety of tomatoes, courgettes, spinach and runner beans.  Theses need to wait until the weather improves and there is no frost. 
Children help to care for and harvest all our fruit and vegetables.
They will also help to prepare them and eat them when they are ready.
If you would like any help with growing at home or would like to help us in school, please see Nazma!