Reading: How Plants Work, chapter 3 “What’s Essential” (pages 61-83) This book is written for gardeners and so the author will reference how gardeners can amend their soil to make sure their crops/plants get the nutrition needed to grow strong. While our class isn’t necessarily about gardening, per se, the concepts and principles are exactly the same. This reading is in preparation for a field trip we are talking on 9/21 where we will do some water and soil testing. YOU HAVE TWO WEEKS to complete this reading, but I suggest you read it as soon as you can so you don’t forget.
Additionally, watch these short videos before class… (There are SIX short videos – you DON’T HAVE to watch BOTH of those last two worm videos, but I thought they were interesting.)
If this topic is interesting to you – especially the worms and soil health – a GREAT book on the BOOK list to read is Earth Moved: On the Remarkable Achievements of Earthworms by Amy Stewart. It is FASCINATING! Make sure to write up a reaction paper once you finish the book. This book is also available on Audible.
If you would like to watch a documentary about soil health, here is one for you. Also, remember the reaction paper in order to get credit!! (Disclaimer: I haven’t watched this video all the way through.)
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Saturday, September 16th at 10:00 am. Optional field trip to go berry hunting! Br. Williams is going to take us up behind Mt. Timpanogos where he harvests his service berries. We’ll probably be able to find 5 or more different edible berries. Bring your fieldwork supplies/backpack (nature journal, pen and colored pencils if desired, jeweler’s loupe, blue sit pad, exacto knife if you think you might need to dissect something.) Where long pants and good shoes. There is always the potential to get a little muddy. Details about rides and locations to come.
Thursday, September 21st – during class. Water and Soil testing field trip. You will need to bring your fieldwork supplies to class that day.