The "Grow 4 It" program was established in August of 2001 as a way to assist in the revitalization of downtown Highland, Indiana. The mission of this program is to provide students the means to help out and take pride in their community through learning gardening basics. This was accomplished by partnering the Town and Highland Elementary schools with local business, Scheeringa Farms.
The students participate in a five month program under the guidance of Lea Ann Kerber, Master Gardener, Accredited Horticulturist and Town of Highland Landscape Coordinator. The students learn about plant science and the basics of gardening. They are then able to apply their knowledge in hands-on learning at Scheeringa Farms.
Scheeringa Farms has been an integral part of the "Grow 4 It" program. Under the direction of Jeannine and Jennifer Scheeringa, the students participate in a two hour program at the farm. The students learn all aspects of greenhouse operations- seed planting, germination techniques, irrigation, fertilization, basic disease identification, and operation costs. Students also receive hands on experience in filling flats, transplanting seedlings, and watering. The students then take the seedling flats back to their schools to care for the plants until planting day in mid may.
Since it's inception in 2001 the "Grow 4 It" program has grown. Initially serving 120 fourth graders at two elementary schools the program now serves four elementary schools: Johnston, Merkley- 4th grade, South Ridge, Warren- 3rd grade. During the 2003 season Scheeringa farms provided hands on experience to 250 3rd and 4th grade students. Scheeringa's helped these students transplant 90 flats of Marigolds that helped beautify the downtown Highland business district. This program is a great example of how the town, schools, and community can work together to "plant the seed" of community pride.

For more information regarding the "Grow 4 It" program and how to establish a program like this in your community, contact Scheeringa Farms or Lea Ann Kerber @ (219)972-5083

Below are a collection of pictures from the latest Grow 4 It event at
Scheeringa Farms. Click on the pictures to see them enlarged