On a bright Saturday morning, September 27, 2025, Asawana Farms welcomed the Moms, Senior Teens, and 21 bright young children from the Jack and Jill of America – Prince George’s County Chapter for what became an unforgettable Morning of Growth, Culture, and Community.
The energy that morning was contagious. From the moment the group arrived, you could sense curiosity, excitement, and a deep willingness to learn. These were not just visitors — they were future growers stepping onto the soil where knowledge, tradition, and sustainability intersect.
Learning Where Food Begins
The day began with a guided tour of our Urban Farm Incubator, where the children learned how we turn everyday food waste into nutrient-rich compost. Many were amazed to see how what’s often thrown away can be transformed into life-giving soil — the very foundation of sustainable farming. This was more than a science lesson; it was an introduction to a cycle of renewal and respect for nature.
From there, we moved to the greenhouse, where they discovered the art and timing of seed starting for both summer and winter crops. We spoke about the patience required to nurture a plant from seed to harvest — and how that same patience and care can be applied to every part of life.
A Hands-On Experience
Then came the most exciting part: getting their hands dirty!
Divided into small groups, the children mixed compost and soil, learned how to balance nutrients, and prepared planting soil with their own hands. Each child filled a grow bag and planted either kale or Swiss chard — vegetables they would take home to nurture and grow.
We talked about what it means to grow your own food: independence, self-reliance, and connection to the land. For many of them, it was their first time planting something they could later eat — and the joy in their faces said it all.
From Seed to Table – and Back Again
Fast forward a few weeks, and our hearts are full seeing the photos their families have shared: beautiful, healthy winter crops of kale and Swiss chard thriving in home gardens across Prince George’s County.
These children didn’t just plant seeds that day — they planted confidence. They learned that food doesn’t just come from the grocery store; it comes from the soil, from care, and from patience. And with that knowledge, they’re already shaping the future of food security in our communities.
Why Growing Matters – Especially Now
As we celebrate their success, we can’t ignore the broader lesson this moment offers. With the ongoing government shutdown, many families — especially federal employees — are facing economic uncertainty. It’s a powerful reminder that knowing how to grow food isn’t just a hobby or a “nice-to-have” skill; it’s a form of resilience.
Imagine if more households, particularly those affected by the shutdown, had even a small garden space or a few grow bags on their porch. They could at least grow some vegetables to put on the table — kale, Swiss chard, collards or herbs. It might not replace a paycheck, but it can ease the pressure, improve nutrition, and restore a sense of control in uncertain times.
What these young growers from Jack and Jill have learned is far bigger than gardening — they’ve learned self-sufficiency. They’ve seen how one seed can provide nourishment for weeks, and how knowledge passed down today can sustain families tomorrow.
Cultivating Culture, Health, and Hope
The morning wasn’t just about farming techniques — it was also about culture and connection. The children explored the world of bitter leaf, learning about its traditional use in African cooking and its many health benefits, including its role in regulating blood sugar. For some, it was their first time tasting it — a direct link between heritage and health that sparked both curiosity and pride.
Moments like these bridge generations. They remind us that farming is not just about producing food; it’s about preserving identity, nurturing community, and protecting the future.
Planting Seeds for Generations to Come
At Asawana Farms, we believe that when children learn to grow food early, they carry that knowledge for life. They grow into adults who understand the value of soil, respect the rhythm of nature, and know that food security begins right at home.
We’re deeply grateful to the Jack and Jill of America – Prince George’s County Chapter for partnering with us on this journey — for trusting us to help plant seeds not just in soil, but in young hearts and minds. Together, we’re cultivating more than crops; we’re cultivating hope, resilience, and a future where every family has the skills to feed itself.
Here’s to the next generation of growers, thinkers, and leaders.