Gardener Scout Interest Badge

Badge Requirements

Gardener

Do either A. flower garden or B. vegetable garden

A. THE FLOWER GARDEN

1. Plan a flower sequence for an ornamental bed to ensure blossom from October to March. Plant and grow successfully for one season six kinds of flowers from seeds or cuttings.
2. Prepare and then discuss with the examiner a plan for a layout of an herbaceous border with particular reference to continuity of bloom, colour schemes and comparative height.
3. Identify and have a general knowledge of six in each category of the following chosen by the examiner in a park or garden:
   1. ornamental trees and/or shrubs,
   2. annuals,
   3. biennials,
   4. perennials,
   5. indigenous plants,
   6. rockery plants.
4. Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of controlling plant pests and diseases. Demonstrate how to spray washes and use dusting powders.
5. Discuss the following:
   1. types of soil and the preparation and care of soil.
   2. how to make a compost heap.
   3. how and when to apply fertilizers and manures.
   4. the amount of water required by plants.
   5. methods of propagating plants.
6. Explain the propagation, planting and lifting of bulbs.
7. Show the examiner a rose bush, shrub or tree pruned by yourself and discuss the choice of tools and purpose of pruning, budding, and grafting.

OR

B. THE VEGETABLE GARDEN

1. Plan, prepare and maintain a vegetable garden at your home or school for at least one season in which at least six different types of vegetables are produced.
2. Discuss the principles of the trench-gardening method. Explain how crop rotation can ensure proper plant nourishment, minimise certain insect damage and provide sufficient vegetables all year round.
3. Make and maintain a compost heap. Discuss the following with the examiner:
   1. the use of animal, green and liquid manure,
   2. the use of wood ash,
   3. the importance of mulching.
4. Demonstrate the use of home-made pesticides, insecticides, and fungicides.
5. Make an item of gardening equipment such as a soil sieve, scoop, spade, hoe, rake, or bucket.
6. Demonstrate the cleaning, bunching, or packing of vegetables. Explain how vegetables can be stored in order to keep them dry and safe from vermin and insects.
7. Explain the nutritional value of
   1. three root or tuber vegetables,
   2. three fruits or vegetables which bear above the ground,
   3. three leafy green vegetables.

Safe From Harm: Whilst completing the requirements for this badge, Scouts must not be placed in hazardous or dangerous situations under any circumstances. All activities must comply with SCOUTS South Africa Safe from Harm framework and be supervised by responsible adults. Participation should offer meaningful learning or service experiences while ensuring the Scout's safety and well-being at all times.

Badge Requirements in printable PDF format

• Gardener (PDF)

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