Horticulture fans have reason to be excited. Last year, the PTA granted a grow lab to RHS last year, in the hopes that plant lovers will gain interest and enthusiasm in the horticulture program.
The new grow lab contains three levels, with florescent lights on each – which aid in planting seeds and ‘cutting’ plants (searing off a piece of the plant and replanting the stem.). The lab is fitted with a cover, which maintains humidity and allows the seeds to germinate and grow. Behind the grow lab sits a greenhouse, a structure utilized by students since the beginning of the horticulture program, and was remodeled along with RHS in 2002.
The horticulture program participates in many activities on campus and throughout the community. The program, in conjunction with the Green Club helped to grow a rain garden last year. The garden not only provides an aesthetically pleasing area, but also absorbs the muddy runoff which prohibits light from reaching plants on the bottoms of rivers and lakes. The horticulture class is also responsible for the daffodils surrounding the flagpole.
The class works with students with special needs, allowing them to participate in watering and maintaining the vitality of greenhouse plants. This year, the horticulture program intends to partner with the cooking class in order to create a thanksgiving feast. Horticulture classes will grow and harness the vegetables for the banquet.
Science teacher Christian Boesen began working with the horticulture class last year. He learned about plants primarily by helping his mother with planting around their garden. With his support and the tools available at RHS, Boesen says he hopes he can help students to become involved in horticulture activities.
“The horticulture class is kind of fun because it’s very hands on, so people who didn’t get the chance to help their moms digging around the garden can now try some new things,” said Boesen. Boesen also hopes that activities such as the thanksgiving feast will provide increased support for and recognition of the horticulture program.
