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Nesting instinct -They’re onto ‘eggstra’ good stuff in Eden!

Our recently launched ‘Think Green’ Eco Youth Group for Eden has been very busy indeed at their ‘plot’. Leaders of the group Niove & Maisie have sent us this top despatch!

Raise your glasses er beds to these top young folks…

Getting started…..

“We had an interactive, outdoor session at Appleby Edibles. Recent acquisition of a raised bed has enabled the group to manage a small plot for growing flowers and vegetables. After turning the plot over and discussing the merits of different soil types such as loam, silty, sandy, clay loam etc, it was down to the serious business of identifying our soil type and deciding which seeds to sow to make the best use of space and growing conditions. The group split into two, with group number one becoming “gardeners” and group number two setting up a base at the picnic tables for the next exercise – nest building!

…and after….

“A collection of natural materials – grasses, mosses, feathers and twigs had been collected earlier in the day and a small bag of straw kindly donated by a local resident. The group were given the brief of constructing a suitable bird’s nest. They were allowed to work in pairs to create their nest but were prohibited from using tools.”

“Discussions were held around the challenges for birds in creating nests using only a beak, vulnerability of nests, types of nest building material, potential hazards which may find their way into the nests and of course …. predation of eggs and chicks! The group came up with some great ideas ….. though a suggestion of predation by a Jaguar is thankfully an unlikely scenario!”

“Once constructed, the nests were tested by placing “eggs” (smooth pebbles) inside to establish whether the nest would be fit for purpose. Each nest did hold the eggs inside. To conclude, the group had a series of questions to work through – How could the nest be improved?, What materials did you find easiest to work with?, What hazards and dangers are involved in nest building? How can you make things easier for your garden birds?”

‘Eggstra’ hands make light work

And here’s another ‘eggstra’….

Our duo continue: “Meanwhile, at the plot ……. our green fingered gardeners were hard at work. The plot was divided into two parts, one of which had well-rotted horse manure, or “black gold”. Despite reservations from some, one keen eyed youngster knew straight away that this half was definitely the side to have! The group set about planting in earnest. Collections of seeds were pored over and firm favourites pulled out. Interestingly, almost all of the young people preferred the seed sowing to planting the young veg plants …. though we did squeeze a few in! Our budding gardeners managed to sow flower seeds, peas and carrots before swapping over with group number two.”

Come in Group 2!

“The second group set to with equal enthusiasm, preparing their half of the plot and choosing seeds. Alongside carrots and onions, group two also opted for kale and cabbage seedlings and a few broad beans. The courgettes were a definite “No” – such a shame! Obviously, slug pellets are out of the question and we didn’t really have an alternative. In the end, we tried to protect our vulnerable lettuce and cabbage seedlings with a barrier of wood ash to prevent those pesky gastrapoda sneaking through ….. let’s hope it works, at least in the short term! The group would love some veggie mesh to protect their seedlings from pests – yes including the resident pheasant who keeps appearing. If anyone would like to donate, even a small amount, the group would be really appreciative. Tired out from their labours, the group had a whistle stop view of the site and quick briefing on composting then it was back down the hill, clutching a pot of sunflower seeds, to the Appleby Hub ready for parents to collect.”

‘Eggstra’ thanks to Niove & Maisie for giving us this detailed run down of what they’ve been up to!

Like what you read – got the ‘nesting instinct’ & want to join in?

The Eco Youth Group group meet on Wednesdays 1900-2100 at Appleby Hub on Chapel Street (Term time only) – find out more via the main nest aka Oaklea HQ enquiries@oakleatrust.co.uk OR T: 01539 735025

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