Summer Camp at Sand n Straw Farm: Nature's Bounty: Wild Edibles, Medicinal Plants, and Natural Dyes

Nature's Bounty: Wild Edibles, Medicinal Plants, and Natural Dyes (July 16th, August 6th)

Get ready for an immersive experience where students will dive into the vibrant world of wild edibles, medicinal plants, and natural fabric dyes.

Throughout the week, students will embark on a journey of discovery, learning to recognize various wild edibles and plants around the farm. They'll explore the nutritional and medicinal properties of these plants, gaining insights into their domestic uses and fascinating histories. From radish pods to nasturtium leaves, each wild edible will reveal its unique flavors and benefits. Students will also develop an understanding of dangerous plants like poison oak, learning how to identify and avoid them, as well as what to do in case of accidental contact.

Aloe, renowned for its healing properties, will take center stage as students discover its applications in first aid, particularly for cuts and burns. Meanwhile, we’ll explore the culinary and medicinal potential of herbs like rosemary, lavender, and fennel.

In the realm of arts and crafts, students will unleash their creativity with natural dyes. They'll learn about the dyeing process using ingredients like avocado pits, pomegranate skins, eucalyptus leaves, onion skins, and logwood, witnessing the magical transformation of fabric into vibrant hues. Through hands-on experiments, they'll explore the effects of acids and alkalines on natural dyes, engaging in scientific inquiry and hypothesis testing.

But the exploration doesn't stop there! Students will also harvest a variety of herbs to brew teas, delving into the nutritional and medicinal properties of each blend. From soothing chamomile to invigorating peppermint, they'll discover the healing powers of herbal infusions and their role in promoting wellness.