In bloom: Matilda, 5, tends her entry in the Portarlington Pelargonium Festival.
By Michelle Herbison
PORTARLINGTON’S pre-schoolers have been nurturing their very own potted plants in the lead-up to the town’s pelargonium festival this Saturday.
The students have been looking after pelargoniums they potted themselves in term one this year.
Portarlington pre-school teacher Jan Castle said taking care of the plants was a great exercise for the children.
“They love to get their little watering cans out and give them a water.”
Ms Castle said the program aligned with the pre-school’s philosophy of teaching children to respect the natural environment.
“Some of them do a lot of gardening at home but some aren’t exposed, so it’s fantastic to give them a chance,” she said.
“They’re just starting to come into flower now. It’s great because the children have all different flowers.”
Portarlington and District Garden Club secretary Maggie Campbell said gardening was an important skill.
“We’re trying to encourage the gardeners of the future. We want the children to be interested in gardening and one day feed their own families with nutritious, home-grown food.”
Ms Campbell said pelargoniums were forgiving and required little water.
“You can have colour in your garden even in drought time. However, decent rain helps everything, so we’re hoping for an abundance of exhibits this year.”
The sixth annual Portarlington Pelargonium Festival will run from 10am to 4pm at Parks Hall, Newcombe St.
Ms Campbell said exhibits could be entered from 4pm to 6pm this Friday.
