Social and emotional learning (SEL) is difficult work. It requires thinking and talking about ongoing emotions and relationships, topics that are complicated and sometimes taboo.

Growing North Minneapolis (GNM) is an urban agriculture and youth development summer program sited in the North Minneapolis, MN, neighborhood.

STEM careers and programs have gained prominence in recent years as youth are shown opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through robotics, computer programming, and game development.

Public gardens across the United States and Canada are exposing young adults to the outdoors through interesting and innovative programs.

How can public gardens reach out to young people and engage them with careers that include horticulture and plant science, to ensure the future of their workforce and skills succession?

Research studies have found that students enjoy learning environmental science concepts in a hands-on, active, and experiential way, and outdoor components add depth and meaning to their indoor learning activities.

Earth Day is coming soon. Be prepared to engage visitors, students in higher education, K-12 students, and more! 

Go-to Guide for Creating a New Generation of Changemakers Capable of Transitioning Our World to a Sustainable Future:

While interest continues to grow for plant-based movements such as farm-to-table, field-to-vase, and school and community gardens, there is a lack of growth in the number of people interested in careers in horticulture.

A critical issue for our field is training the public garden and environmental leaders of tomorrow. Educational institutions, such as college and university gardens, are uniquely poised to become leaders in this area.