This morning, a group of middle school students at the Paideia School in Atlanta dedicated a National Wildlife Federation-certified native plant garden to their school. The students worked with EcoAddendum, a nonprofit organization devoted to creating native habitats, to apply for grants and held native plant sales to raise funds for the garden. They made signs to identify plant species and created art to adorn the garden. A second grade class also contributed fairy houses and tree hangings. “It was fun to learn about native plants and work together to create something beautiful,” said Erica, one of the students.

The garden will serve as a learning tool as well as a peaceful place to sit on campus. The students designed the garden to educate their schoolmates using the five senses: taste, smell, sight, sound and touch. Students can learn about native plants by observing seasonal changes, identifying native plant species and the calls of birds, eating edible berries, smelling plants with sweet aromas, and touching the plants to feel the texture of the leaves. In addition to creating a peaceful environment to appreciate and enjoy nature, these students have provided a natural habitat for birds, bees and butterflies for years to come.