The raised beds at Ouachita Children’s Center are tended by students.
Several years ago, Garland County Master Gardeners built six raised beds at Ouachita Children’s Center (OCC), which is located at 339 Charteroak Street. Students housed at OCC helped put the soil in the beds and continue to assist in maintaining them. While students are being taught gardening techniques, the produce is utilized by the kitchen staff in the meals being prepared.
Due to funds recently provided by the Coleus Fund, repairs were made to the beds and new plants were purchased for the spring planting season. Currently, different varieties of bell peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, purple hull peas, watermelon, and onions are thriving in the garden. The fall garden will consist of kale, cabbage, broccoli, and collard greens.
A lesson was taught using herbs in preparing meals. Students were able to touch and smell twelve different herbs as they planted them. They used permanent markers on rocks for identification.
Due to a donation made by a master gardener, the students built birdhouses to place on the property as a continuing education project on campus.
The Garland County Master Gardeners is an organization through the University of Arkansas. The monthly meetings are held the third Thursday of each month at the Elks Lodge. For more information concerning the Master Gardeners organization, one may visit the Cooperative Extension Office at 210 Woodbine or call 501-623-6841.
