Kansas Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom

Kansas Lesson Plan

Vertical Gardening

Lesson 3: Nutrition and Growing Media

Timeframe

3 days (40 minutes periods)

Standards Addressed

HS-LS 1-6

Lesson Objectives

  1. Define and identify essential elements necessary for plant growth.
  2. Select growing media for seeds.

EssentialQuestion

  1. What types of growing media are best for vertical gardens?

Careers Addressed

Biochemist, Precision Ag Specialist, Hydrologist

Materials/Resources Needed

  • Plant nutrient test kit
  • Bowl/plate for media samples
  • Electronic device for students to access handouts if needed
  • Small whiteboards (optional) pH test strips
  • Paper/notebook for bell ringer
  • Media samples (clay pellets, Rockwool, potting mix, perlite ,peat moss, vermiculite)
  • Paper copies of part one and part two growing media notes
  • Plant nutrients note handout