Dirty Hands, Growing Minds
by Sally Heit, Marketing & Development Director
I’m small and wriggly, hiding under the ground.
I eat dead plants and dirt all year round.
I leave behind castings to make your plants thrive,
And tunnel through soil to keep gardens alive.
What am I?
Answer: (find it at the end of the article)
Every week in Hope Garden Club started with a fun riddle like this one, helping students think about plants, soil, seeds, and all things gardening. This year, 14 students in grades 2–8 spent time learning, growing, and getting their hands dirty in the greenhouse at the North Campus.
Before our annual plant sale, students cleaned pots, refreshed the rain barrel, and prepared the greenhouse for planting season. They grew flowers, herbs, tomatoes, and vegetable starts that were later sold at the sale.
Along the way, students learned about healthy soil, compost, sunlight, watering, and the important role bugs play in gardens. They even built bug hotels to give helpful insects a cozy place to stay during the winter.
One of the highlights of the year was learning about vermicomposting with Hope Church member Dave Wyosnick. Students created a worm bin filled with “red wigglers,” which helped turn food scraps and coffee grounds into rich compost known as “black gold.” Searching for worms and harvesting compost quickly became the favorite garden club activity.
From greenhouse gardening to field trips and composting adventures, this year was full of learning, teamwork, and fun. Most importantly, students gained a deeper appreciation for caring for God’s creation.
And yes — the answer is: an earthworm.
