At Rosemead High School, students are getting a taste of sustainable agriculture right in their own backyard. The school’s Best of Thyme Gardening Club has recently harvested a colorful crop of watermelon radishes, turning classroom theory into real-world agricultural practice.
The initiative, led by Rosemead High School’s agriculture teachers, involves students in the full cycle of food production — from planting seeds to harvesting crops and finally preparing the produce for consumption. This hands-on experience not only teaches agricultural skills but also promotes the values of sustainability and healthy eating.
The Gardening Club, active for five years, has become a cornerstone of Rosemead High’s extracurricular offerings, aligning with the growing interest in environmental stewardship among students. This year’s focus on watermelon radishes brought a vibrant burst of color and a variety of nutrients to the student-grown garden.
After the harvest, students engaged in a culinary lesson to pickle the radishes, learning techniques they can use at home. These activities are rounded off with discussions on nutrition and the benefits of including fresh produce in daily diets.
The impact of the Gardening Club extends beyond school grounds. Plans are underway to partner with local farmers’ markets in El Monte and South El Monte, providing a platform for students to sell their produce and interact with the community.
Additionally, the club has sparked interest among local elementary schools, leading to discussions about expanding gardening programs to younger students, fostering a community-wide appreciation for agriculture from an early age.
Rosemead High School’s Best of Thyme Gardening Club is planting the seeds for a greener future, showing that even small community efforts can lead to substantial environmental and educational yields. As the program grows, students and residents alike are invited to get involved, either by participating in upcoming gardening events or by supporting their local student farmers at markets.
For those interested in supporting or joining the Best of Thyme Gardening Club, contact Rosemead High School for more information on how to participate in their upcoming projects and events.
