Kids help sprout new life at Jessy’s Garden

Each kid got a prize and Sanderson served snacks and drinks to all the guests.

This year featured a bouncy castle that was generously donated for the event, as well as face painting for the kids, with the parents as the painters.

“It’s a very good bonding experience for the parent and child,” said Sanderson. “That’s what the day is all about, it’s just families bonding and just getting back into nature and just being part of these gardens.”

Speaking about the garden’s, Sanderson said they’re expanding into new types of growth.

“We have 25 baby chicks now,” said Sanderson. “We’re still planting, by this weekend we’re hoping to have at least half of the gardens planted.”

Sanderson said that we can expect to see plenty of carrots, tomatoes, lettuce, potatoes, sweet potatoes, peppers and Swiss chard.

She added they may retry their hand at a new crop that’s not native to Saskatchewan this year.

“We had newcomers come out [last year] and they tried a new seed in the ground,” said Sanderson. “Because it was planted so late it didn’t go to seed.”

That seed is called Teff, and it’s a type of grain native to Africa, which is used in breads and other baked goods.

“They take that seed and they grind it into flour,” said Sanderson. “That makes their flat bread, that’s really part of their diet.”

Sanderson said that she wants to try and grow Teff again to bring it to crop and help save these people money, as it’s very expensive to purchase in Canada.

She added that she’s always open to trying to grow any new type of crop.

“I don’t care what culture you are,” said Sanderson. “If there’s something special you would like us to try for you, come on out bring your seed and we’ll give it a shot.”

If you’re interested in trying to grow a new crop or you’d like to just volunteer some time helping out at the garden you can call Bonny at 306-922-3103.

jbowler@panow.com

Twitter: @journalistjim

by James Bowler

Kids help sprout new life at Jessy’s Garden

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