In April, the Horticulture Club sponsored their Second Annual Green Thumb Day. Club members, along with other plant science students, enjoyed spending time with and teaching 180 kindergarten children from four area elementary schools about the benefits of plants and how they are a part of our everyday life.

     The kindergartners learned that plants contribute to the shelter over our heads, the clothes we wear, and the nourishment for our bodies. They experienced hands-on lessons by making "Potato Heads," making their own salad, counting seeds, tasting different fruits and vegetables, along with other interesting activities. The children also toured the greenhouses where they were instructed to use their five senses to located the many colors, smells, textures, and sounds found there.

     After the tour and activities, the kindergartners loved getting thumbs green and their hands in the soil. They were provided pots, soil, and plants to learn how to make their own potted plants to take home with them. Food treats and punch topped of the day. After the children went back to their schools, the Horticulture Club treated volunteers and all those who helped to a hamburger cookout. A couple of weeks following the event, each class sent thank you cards and letters from the children sharing what they had learned.

     Several local businesses contributed to this event. Plans are already being made for next year.