SWEET 16s are our scalable hands-on educational projects designed to take into consideration multiple levels and sizes of the different projects.  Each Sweet 16 project will be created and on display for free to the viewing public and for educational purposes.  They are designed for expansion of future opportunities and successes as well.

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These projects are developed to inspire a switch from NIMBY to MOBY - from “Not In My Back Yard” to “My Own Back Yard” - where we can each make a difference with a few simple acts; where we can replenish instead of deplete.  All of these projects provide support to pollinators and other wildlife, and they help to create healthier living soils which will in turn absorb and filter more water.  These actions have the benefit of helping to decrease local runoff by capturing more of the water in the soil.

 

Sweet 16s are “Pot to Plot” projects, which use “Flower Power” in the form of seed balm balls.  They are scalable and designed to fit into small spaces, such as a 6-inch ‘pot’, as well as into larger areas, such as an acre ‘plot’.  This scalability will allow for a wide range of individuals to take advantage of them because the projects are easily modified for size and individual preferences.  Because they are “customizable”, the size will dictate what is included for each participant’s own Sweet 16 home project.

 

Each project includes education regarding the plants used and their benefits to both people and wildlife.  Guild and companion specific seed samples, in addition to hay, soil and pots, are included with each our informal classes. Information regarding how to scale the project to fit the participant’s situation and desire is also provided.  Flower Power balm balls will be created during class using the seeds being discussed for each project.  The ‘guild’ aspects and the need for ‘companion planting’ are highlighted and emphasized in order to provide ecological balance awareness.  These projects are seasonal and weather dependent.

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To scale down the projects, not all seeds and plants will be used for each size of scaling.  Participants will, however, be able to take home sample seeds used in each project along with their companion plant seeds to sow in a Ruth Stout and/or Hugelkultur method, both of which are 'no-till'.  This approach will allow each participant to create their own project to suit their needs and aesthetics.