Cover Up!
Lesson Overview
Goals
- Students will be able to describe the process of mulching and the benefits it provides to the growing process.
Outcomes
Teach the Teacher
Tools & Materials
- Moisture meter
- Mulch
- Fallow raised planter or garden bed
Activity
The growing process is both complex and simple at the same time. The chemistry, biology, and physics that govern the growing process can be staggeringly complex. On the other hand, processes like watering, germination, and mulching can be reduced to very simple processes.
The key, of course, is hands-on experimentation to unlock the mystery of these processes. Once a beginning gardener has witnessed the process unfold firsthand it becomes less daunting, opening the door for self-confidence.
Hands on experience is the cornerstone to learning in the Lab. To better understand the benefits of mulching as a mechanism to control moisture loss, students will conduct an experiment to unlock the mystery of mulching.
Test mulched soil and unmulched soil to determine how much less water the mulched soil requires over a 7, 14, and 30 day period. A fallow raised planter or garden bed divided in half would provide the perfect backdrop.
Related Lessons
Give the Advanced lesson a try now that you’ve completed the Intermediate Lesson! Or revisit the Beginner Lesson as needed.
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