Waikoikoi School 25 June 2021
What an amazing time I had at Waikoikoi School with a group of engaged enthusiastic learners.
We started our learning about native plant species that are found in Southland with some native plant identification. We looked really closely at different leaves as we matched them with the right Leaf Bingo card. Each student then learnt about a native plant and presented back to all of us what they had noticed and learnt. It was discussed that they have many of these natives planted and growing around their school site. We talked a lot about the Southland weather and how important it is to source Southland natives.
Looking at examples of different seeds led to mention of dispersal methods, when to collect seed (as the examples had been collected throughout the season), seed preparation and growing native plants from seed. The students then got hands on sowing mānuka seed. It was also noted that many of Southland’s native trees can be grown from cuttings, another propagation method, so we learnt the process for how to do this. What quick learners – you were awesome!
It was great to spend the day at this school as part of their Enviroschools journey alongside Josh (Enviroschools facilitator, Environment Southland). We look forward to their visit to the Southland Community Nursery.
Bronwyn
Posted: 29 June 2021