Starting a School Garden in Northern Thailand: Basics for Success

Start small, build soil, choose easy crops, and involve children at every step.

First-Year Plan

1. Bed prep: double-dig, add compost, manure, rice hulls.
2. Test pH; aim for 6.5–7.0 (lime if acidic).
3. Easy crops: lettuce, yardlong beans, Thai basil, okra, morning glory.
4. Water 1" weekly; mulch heavily.
5. Organic pest control: neem, row covers, hand-picking.

Resources

• Square Foot Gardening (Bartholomew)
• Joy of Gardening
• Local extension & seed suppliers

Gardening teaches patience, science, and nutrition—perfect for an orphanage project.