Green thumbs are striking throughout Prosper with the new addition of a small garden that’s creating a huge impact. The Collin County Master Gardeners, the Prosper Garden Club, Prosper ISD and many volunteers have come together to create and maintain The Jana Thomson Garden, formerly known as the environmental learning center adjacent to Judy Rucker Elementary School, where for the first time in the nation, ‘Earth-Kind’ gardening is being put into effect.
Earth-Kind landscaping is a form of gardening which enables the combination of organic and traditional gardening principles to create a horticultural system. The process involves amending the soil, planting the plant, maintaining three inches of mulch to help hold moisture in the ground and continuing the process to result in water conservation and a healthier environment.
Patty Felan is a master gardener who has helped throughout the process of this experiment. “This project has led to a closer community feeling,” Felan said. “I have seen students out writing poetry, kids planting, and it just shows how much joy a garden can bring to a community.”
The garden was named after Jana Thomson, the former principal of Rucker elementary and a current member of the Prosper ISD School Board. “I began my principal career in Prosper at Rucker Elementary when we only had one elementary school,” Thomson said. “I am honored that this environmental learning garden was named in my honor.”
The Prosper Gardeners Club has volunteers who participate in taking care of the garden and continues to look for more people interested in being involved. “We always appreciate the help and support from the community with upcoming projects to help take care of the environment,” Felan commented. Whether it be helping with the growth and expansion of this research project or just sitting and admiring the scenery, everyone is welcome to The Jana Thomson Garden.
Tish Cama | THE PROSPER TIMES
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