“To be a successful farmer one must first know the nature of the soil.”
— Xenophon, Oeconomicus, 400 B.C.
Green Beans in a Green Jean Foundation school garden
Digging In
As a former science teacher, I often reminded my students that while we study subjects in isolation, nothing in the real world exists that way. The connections between biology, chemistry, and physics are constant, shaping the way our world functions.
Agriculture is no exception—it is at the heart of personal health, nutrition, and environmental sustainability, forming the backbone of our food systems and influencing the future of our planet.
At the Green Jean Foundation, we believe in the power of getting our hands dirty. Last week, we had the pleasure of installing a new school garden, and we’re excited to plant it with students soon. (Stay tuned—we’ll be sharing that experience with you soon!) As we worked, we noticed two types of people passing by: those who commented on how much dirt there was and those who said, “That’s great dirt!”
The way we grow our food influences everything from the nutrient density of our meals to the long-term health of our soil and water. Sustainable farming practices can reduce pollution, improve biodiversity, and sequester carbon, while poor agricultural methods can deplete resources and harm ecosystems. By supporting responsible farming and engaging with the land—whether through gardening, regenerative agriculture, or conscious food choices—we contribute to a healthier planet and a more resilient food system for future generations.
Soil has been a hot topic on the Modern Farming Podcast, where we’ve explored the importance of biologically rich, nutrient-dense earth in growing healthy crops. Whether it’s tending a backyard garden or supporting local farms that use regenerative practices, one thing is clear—healthy bodies begin with healthy land.
This edition of our newsletter is all about the benefits of getting dirty together. Let’s dig in!
Rachael Witherspoon, Education Director
The Foundations of Gardening: Topsoil, Compost, and Potting Mix Explained
Understanding the differences between topsoil, compost, and potting mix is crucial for successful gardening. Topsoil, the uppermost layer of soil, is rich in organic matter and microorganisms, making it ideal for garden beds. However, commercially sold topsoil can sometimes contain lower-quality subsoil, which may affect its suitability for planting. When purchasing, it’s important to check the texture, color, and source of the soil to ensure its quality for gardening.
Compost, made from decomposed organic materials, is an excellent soil amendment that improves aeration, drainage, and nutrient retention. It benefits both sandy and clay-heavy soils by increasing water retention and improving drainage, respectively. Compost, either purchased or home-made, is best used as a conditioner rather than a primary growing medium and should be chosen carefully to avoid contaminants like pesticides or weed seeds. Reach out to your local Extension Office to determine if your state has regulations in place to ensure compost vendors are providing a high-quality product.
Potting mix is specially designed for container gardening. It consists of ingredients like peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite, which provide moisture retention and prevent compaction. While potting mixes can contain added fertilizers or wetting agents, they are unsuitable for in-ground gardens due to their tendency to break down under pressure. Choosing the right potting mix ensures healthy plant growth in containers.
Selecting the appropriate growing medium is key to creating an optimal gardening environment. Topsoil is best for garden beds, compost improves soil health, and potting mix is designed for container plants. Understanding these materials and using high-quality products ensures successful and sustainable plant growth. Additionally, maintaining healthy soil is critical, as the soil microbiome plays a vital role in plant health and, ultimately, the nutritional quality of food, as evidenced by research into organic farming practices and their impact on soil and crop health.
Wilkinson Elementary School's second radish harvest
The Impact of Green Jean’s School Garden Programs
In most school districts, the third quarter is just ending, marking three-quarters of the school year. So far, the Green Jean Foundation’s school garden programs have positively impacted over 1,000 students, giving them the opportunity to get their hands dirty, try new vegetables, and experience the joy of growing their own plants. Additionally, students have learned about pollinators, ecosystems, and environmental stewardship. Be on the lookout for our year-end recap, where we’ll highlight the various Green Jean school garden programs. Together, we’re cultivating agricultural excellence through education.
