Hydroponics!

Although I'll barely be there for a month, I was asked to help out with this other General Science teacher Ms F to coordinate the hydroponics project between a Secondary 2 class that I teach and hers. I really don't do much once again, just tagging along and making teacher-like remarks to the students without actually making a noticeable difference actually. Oh well.

We spent our first day planting seeds inside large pieces of sponges with criss-cut holes to put seeds in. From what Ms F said, the seeds should not be pushed too far in or the seedlings can grow out of the sponge. However, if they're too near the surface, they'll pop out like popcorns when we subsequently squeeze the sponge intensively to get rid of air bubbles (and soak it with water). As you can tell by now, I sound more like a student trying to learn how on earth it works rather than being the authoritative teacher like I should be (I think). Sigh on that one.

That was last week. 3 days later, it's time to transfer the seedlings over to the greenhouse! Off we troop, carrying the trays. Actually I waited straight at the greenhouse, once again exhibiting my inadequacy. Oh well.

The greenhouse was awfully dirty and our job today was to spray water and clean them. Urgh.

First was the washing. The hose was a chore to handle as the cleaner wasn't around to lend us her tightening nut to bind the water hose to the tap and water sprayed everywhere. Initially a girl volunteered and sacrificed part of her skirt. I then offered and volunteered my shirt. Oh well at least it looked as if I sweated a lot. While the water was a hindrance, the girls had a fun time playing with water and splashing at the holes in the styrofoam boards where we would transplant the seedlings to.
Finally the cleaning lady appeared and kindly lent us the nut. I still have it in my drawer though even though I should've returned her this morning. But, no time! Argh!

Ok, so here's the transplanting in progress.

The final thing! I can't wait for the kang kongs to be out!