We are still growing our fruit and vegetables in the hydroponic unit. Tomorrow Mr. Sandford is coming to help us change the water and hopefully he will help us with planting our winter vegetables and herbs. We are going to grow celery, coriander and basil. We really appreciate Mr Sandford's support. - By Ashleigh

We are still growing tomatoes, chillies, peppers and lettuces which we are using in our healthy lunches. Last week playcentre came over to look at our hydroponics and we showed them what we had planted. They took three strawberry plants back to playcentre to plant in their garden. They also took some lettuce leaves for their lunch. We are going to plant strawberry plants next to the herb garden over Winter because they will die in the glass house. - Ashleigh.

Ideas for Winter

It would be preferable to change the water for the winter. I could show you when I come out.

There are a number of plants that could be planted.
Cauliflower,
Broccoli,
Spinach which is great in sandwiches and quiches, with a poached egg on toast, or with noodles.
Celery,
Lettuce?
Because there are no white butterflies about in the winter there would be no caterpillars

This is a great recipe for lunch on a cold winters day;
Carrot
Whole kernel Corn (canned)
Green Peas or Beans (frozen)
Spinach
Noodles (2 minute)
Diced Chicken or Beef (cooked)

Grate carrot and tear spinach leaves into small pieces
Cook noodles as per instructions on the packet
Add carrots, peas or beans corn and meat – heat until hot
Then add spinach and heat for 30 seconds.

Now ready to serve and eat.

The following can be added to taste;
Crushed garlic,
Crushed/grated ginger
Sweet chillie sauce.

To help keep unwanted insect/bugs away marigold could be planted in pots and placed in the glass house.

Let me know when it is the best day and time to come to Apiti School.

Regards
John Sandford

Hydroponics Feedback

I have just seen the photo in the blog spot newsletter. The plants look awesome and the children are to be congratulated on their effort and success.
I notice Ashley said the strawberries would die over winter in the hydroponics. This will only happen is the system is turned off.
That being the case new strawberry plants would need to be purchased and installed. Strawberries produce their best crop in the 2nd and 3rd year so by keeping the hydroponics going a bigger crop should be produced next season. The plant take up less nutrients in the winter months so would need less frequent attention.
I would be happy to come out and talk to the overseers of the project if the is what you would like.
They children have done a great job and they should be very proud of their success.

Best regards
John