The kids are back in school and it’s time to start a new gardening year at Oak Forest Elementary, with 120 or so eager fifth graders ready to get their hands in the dirt.  But first, the volunteers are busy getting the gardens ready for new crops and a new season.  Some plants are still producing, such as long beans, okra and peppers, but most have succumbed to the summer heat, so beds have been cleared

and rested to prepare for fall veggies.  

Last week, volunteers cleaned out the Red Shed.  All of the shovels, rakes and hoes were washed and oiled; the trowels were cleaned, clippers

sharpened, tubs washed and the whole shed was swept and organized.  It’s time to get growing!  Next week, the students come into the garden for the first time for a safety orientation and a little basic training.