For science! CJBS students grow green thumb with new experiment

Left to right: Sasha Ilnyckyj, teacher; Josie Sangris-Bishop; Laurie Gargan, O'Neil Mackenzie, and Nick Fullerton, teacher. (Francis Tessier-Burns/CKLB)

Seven foot tall towers line the far wall in the cafeteria at Chief Jimmy Bruneau School in Edzo.

The towers are actually hydroponic systems and are part of a new science experiment for students where they’ll get to grow their own food.

Hydroponic systems are a type of gardening without soil. All the nutrients are mixed into water, which drips onto the roots, feeding the plants. Despite this, hydroponics use less water than traditional agriculture and the systems are usually easier to set up.

CKLB spoke with students and teachers about the benefits of being able to grow plants year-round.

 


 

About the Author

Francis Tessier-Burns
Francis was a reporter with CKLB from January 2019 to March 2023. In his time with CKLB, he had the immense pleasure and honour of learning about northern Indigenous cultures.