Teaching children nuances of gardening

The camp taught the children how to identify seeds, types of soil and methods to grow plants. G Mullaivanam, founder of Tree Bank, said they had received a request from the residents of Nehru Street in Chromepet to conduct the camp. 

“There were 50 children who were interested, and we provided seeds, soil and taught them the nuances of gardening and showed them earthworms, which are beneficial to the soil. The children got a chance to play in the mud – which is not very common these days. Each child was given a mini-pot with soil and seeds and instructed on watering and manuring so that they can experience the joys of growing plants,” said Mullaivanam. 

Seeds of medicinal plants like Tulsi and also vegetables such as lady’s fingers and chillies were given to the children, who were excited at the prospect of watching the plant grow. Mullaivanam said he started the summer camp in 2008, when he realised that a majority of children have never played in the mud. 

“By getting the children to appreciate nature, we are instilling in them a sense of responsibility for the environment. These days children are not taught skills like gardening, which are as important as academics, which can shape the worldview of the child and teach them to protect their environment,” said Mullaivanam.