Young Gardeners Help Wildflowers Thrive at the Allotment with Vigo Primary School

Over two sunny days on July 16th and 17th, 81 enthusiastic Year R pupils from Vigo Primary School swapped the classroom for the great outdoors as they took part in a series of hands-on gardening activities at the community allotment. The sessions were part of the ongoing Disappearing Wildflowers project — a local initiative aimed at restoring native wildflower species and supporting pollinators in the area.

The young learners engaged in three main activities: potting on, watering, and pot washing. Guided by dedicated volunteers, the children were introduced to some of the native species featured in the 6 Trees and 6 Flowers project — an educational effort to help children recognise six native British trees and six local wildflowers.

A highlight of the day was learning about bird’s-foot trefoil, one of the six featured wildflowers. Each child had the chance to carefully pot on their own seedling, learning about the parts of a plant — from the roots to the leaves — and how giving plants more space in larger pots helps them grow stronger and healthier.

The children also took turns watering seedlings, gaining a deeper understanding of how watering helps root development and why being gentle is important to avoid disturbing the soil. During pot washing, they discovered how cleaning used pots prevents disease and creates a healthier environment for new plants.

“These kinds of hands-on activities are so valuable for young children,” said one volunteer. “They’re not just learning about plants — they’re learning how to care for the environment and play a part in protecting nature.”

The wildflowers nurtured during these sessions will be planted in a new community meadow this October. The pupils will be invited back to help with the planting and see firsthand how their efforts are helping to support pollinators and local biodiversity.

A huge thank you goes to Vigo Primary School for their enthusiastic participation, and to the amazing volunteers who brought the sessions to life. Together, they’ve planted the seeds — quite literally — for a greener, more pollinator-friendly future.