What’s Growing On: CitiSci Grow Food for Science program gives out free plants for science

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GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) -Over the next 16 weeks, participants will take care of three tomato plants at different stages of maturity.

Organizers will learn what stages of growing the plant are the most rewarding and enjoyable. In exchange, growers will learn how to garden at home.

Every month, all are invited to join a zoom session with the organizers. They will learn how to troubleshoot potential issues and give updates on the health of the plant.

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“In their plant kit they’re gonna have everything they need to take care of their plants, they’re going to have a protocol or a list of instructions on tips on how to water, how to transplant, and things like that,” Daniela Perez Lugones, a masters student at the University of Florida, said.

Perez explained the goal is to show others how easy it is to grow your own food. On a larger scale, they hope to reduce food insecurity with free gardening education.

“The more home growers we get involved, the more people we have interested in growing their own food. The more people that are confident growing their own food, then that is just one of many ways to lessen the burden of food insecurity in different communities. While also providing the horticulture industry with valuable information about what it is that consumers want and need from their products,” Perez stated.

Organizers aim to make the experience as easy as possible. All supplies are included and free.

The deadline to sign up is March 4 and plants must be picked up March 7 or 8 at the UF/IFAS Extension Alachua County office.

For a link to sign up, click here.

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