A
recent visit to the
Smith Children’s Garden at the Naples Botanical Garden in
Florida offered an imaginative example of repurposing items for use in the
garden.
Webster’s dictionary defines repurpose as:
to change (something) so that it can be used for a different purpose.
I consider repurposing items as another way to REUSE, REDUCE, RECYCLE.
I consider repurposing items as another way to REUSE, REDUCE, RECYCLE.
It
had never crossed my mind to use a worn purse, old rain boots or even more
unusual, an old pair of “mom” jeans as a planter — much more interesting than a
terracotta pot! What a great idea that adds color and whimsy to drab fences and
walls while creating a learning opportunity for children. It
had never crossed my mind to use a worn pocketbook, old rain boots or even more
unusual, a pair of “mom” jeans as a planter — much more interesting than a
terracotta pot.
Although
Earth Day is months away why not consider mobilizing an effort to
collect items that no longer serve their original purpose, turn them into growing vessels and create a unique living gallery!
This
may seem like a small gesture, but I view this as an example and reminder for all of us to reuse, reduce
and recycle. It is never too early to teach children about our responsibility to respect and care for our environment, whether it be by planting a tree, picking up litter or composting
kitchen waste — for they are the future stewards of our planet.
MORE PICTURES FROM THE CHILDREN'S GARDEN
