Extension Agent for 4-H
This project focuses on activities related to raising a garden, flowers, forestry and field crops, all of which include planning, planting, experimenting, understanding soils, seeds, insects, plant care, harvesting, weed identification and control, processing, exploring careers and the relationship between trees, people and communities.
4-H members may choose from three options: field crops, forestry and horticulture. There is 4-H curriculum that can be purchased for anyone interested in the plant sciences project. Here is a breakdown of what youth can learn at different ages/stages in each option:
Field Crops:
Experiment with soil testing
Grow and harvest crops
Plant a wheat variety test plot
Learn about herbicides and fertilizers
Forestry:
Ages 7-9
Learn to identify trees
Determine differences between trees and shrubs
Learn about different trees and tree parts
Ages 10-13
Graft a bud to a living tree
Learn the sounds and smells of the forest
Discover health benefits trees have on people
Ages 14 and older
Investigate forest changes and learn about forest health
Study forecasts on a global scale
Learn forest conservation techniques
Horticulture:
Ages 7-9
When, where and what to plant
Differences between cool and warm-season vegetables
Learn plant parts and how they are used
Care and use of basic garden tools
Ages 10-13
Seed varieties and starting seeds indoors
Preventative pest control
Specialty harvest and selling your harvest
Ages 14 and older
Plant pollination
Ways to preserve foods
Study food industry careers
Learn the effects of biotechnology
In addition to the curriculum, youth are also offered the opportunity to attend project meetings held by volunteers. Each year, youth are able to demonstrate the hard work that has been spent by participating locally at the county fair, area contests, and depending on age and placing, the Kansas State Fair.
The plant science project is a great opportunity for youth to learn important life skills. For more information about this project, contact Jennifer K. Terrell, 4-H Youth Development for K-State Research and Extension Southwind District at jkterrell@ksu.edu or 620-244-3826.
