First Day At FGCU Food Forest!

10/20/17

Today was my first day at the FGCU food forest! I have never visited before, so I was excited to learn and find out what was at the site. When I arrived I was truly surprised by the Food Forest's size. It is a large botanical garden that features many tropical/subtropical edible species. I chose to volunteer at the food forest because 1) It interested me, as I wanted to learn what edible species grow well in Florida and 2) I wanted to give back to the community, and the food forest is a great cause. The work was labor intensive, but satisfying! I learned new gardening techniques like sheet mulching, and enjoyed some delicious edible species like mulberries. The food forest helped me learn how to grow sustainably by planting native plant species and using natural pesticides. I learned the harms of invasive species and how they can take over an environment and stealing light/nutrients. Also I learned the benefits of not using pesticides. All the food grown in the forest does not need to be washed, as it has nothing harmful sprayed on it or in the soil. This means it is safe to eat, and ready to enjoy! I also learned that there is a ton of plants that acts as natural barriers to insects/pests. Overall there is a lot to learn and do at the Food Forest. It truly is a unique project, one where everyone could benefit from! I plan on utilizing the Food Forest more often, as I want to grow my own food but do not have a garden.