Young Ellerslie gardeners head back to school

Seedlings and potting mix are as much a part of heading back to school as labelled uniforms and new stationery for students preparing for Ellerslie International Flower Show this month.

The new school gardens category will see eight Canterbury schools create bright and colourful spaces in front of a façade of a street of houses.

Christchurch South Intermediate teacher Margaret Calder says the interest and support from the community as they prepare has been “brilliant”.

“The shared focus with the community is perhaps the most exciting part of our entry.  Our main worry, as with lots of exhibitors I imagine, is that our plants will flower on the right day!”

As part of their build-up, St Albans Catholic School Learning Support Worker and School Gardener Nicky Ryan-Yates organised five summer holiday working bees, says parent Clair Hortin.

“There’s been a great turnout at the working bees, including several kids like my daughter who are going on to intermediate this year. The kids are keen because it’s Nicky and she makes it fun, she has so much energy and is so positive.”

Nicky Ryan-Yates is also grateful for huge community support as they prepare a vibrant and creative garden on a tight budget.

“As soon as we say we’re doing the Ellerslie school thing businesses are bending over backwards to help – we’ve had amazing support from Oderings Nurseries in particular -- not to mention all the parents carpooling and bringing in kids during the holidays.”

“I’m expecting it will be one of the most exciting categories at this year’s Show, both for the kids involved and the public,” says Ellerslie General Manager Kate Hillier.