MLK+Day+of+Service+Event

=k.a. MLK Day of Service Event=

(the image isn't uploading for some reason, so here's a google drive link to it:/ )

At Good Hope Farm project, we had the opportunity to help beautify the nearby park or prepare the fields for the coming spring. We were split into groups; I was part of the group that helped plant shrubs by the lake at the park. The shrubs we planted were all native to swampy North Carolina areas, which was great since the soil was riddled with clay. To start, we would dig a hole at the marked areas; using a pick-axe when the soil was especially tough. After making a hole about 6 inches in diameter and about a foot deep, we would prepare the compost for the soil. Following, we would prepare the shrubs for planting by loosening its soil. It was great, but the compost and plants were frozen, so we struggled to prepare it all properly.

This experience has given me a hands-on experience dealing with how critical the environment surrounding the plants is. The lead landscape architect began the service by teaching us how to properly prepare the soil for the plants- she explained the importance of the topsoil and the compost in the plant's growth. She explained that the soil needed to be loosened to allow the shrub's roots to branch out (hah) and that the compost is to help regulate its moisture and nutrients. While the shrub provides aesthetic, the shrubs are there to prevent the city from mowing down the area- despite the architect's request not to. Although short, this event has allowed me and many others to learn about the soil's structure and how plants are used in various ways.