Success StoryAll New To Me!! Recovering addicts see new pathways in gardening!!



All New To Me!! Recovering addicts see new pathways in gardening!!

Author: Laura Rogers

Planning Unit: Whitley County CES

Major Program: Community Gardens and Horticulture Therapy

Plan of Work: Embracing a Healthy Lifestyle

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

Classes teaching the technique of planting and producing vegetables at Sky Hope Recovery Center, Pulaski County. The recovering women from addiction planted a raised bed garden under the supervision of Beth Wilson, UK Horticulture Agent for Pulaski County, and Laura Rogers, Kentucky State University Small Farm Agent. The garden's produce was harvested and weighed; then, they took the vegetables into the kitchen to add to the menu for the evening meal—increasing the confidence of the recovering individuals. 


Under supervision, the women had to learn information such as basic garden: how many seeds to drop into each garden pod; water each plant and seed holder; When to harvest the produce; How to tend to the plants; The plants are past-producing, and need to cull from the garden; How to prepare the garden for a long winter. etc.


Furthermore, Sky Hope Recovery Center classes also included succulent plants to teach root size, watering, and improve their confidence. Kentucky State University provided the plants for the ladies to brighten their rooms. 


While planting the garden boxes, One recovering addict lady looked another lady in the face, straight in the eyes, when planting the garden seed and stated. "We are alcoholics; that is why we don't know how to plant! All new to me!" 






Stories by Laura Rogers


Kentucky State University Small Farm Conference Eastern Kentucky Style

Kentucky State University Small Farm Conference Eastern Kentucky Style

about 1 years ago by Laura Rogers

The economic challenges the citizens of Whitley County face and to share some encouraging news rega... Read More


Mushrooms to Grow On

Mushrooms to Grow On

about 1 years ago by Laura Rogers

The Small Farm Program and Beginning Farmer Project of Kentucky State University collaborated with t... Read More


Stories by Whitley County CES


4-H Teen Club: Empowering Leaders

4-H Teen Club: Empowering Leaders

about 1 years ago by Lisa Jones

Whitley County 4-H has seen great progress in youth development with the introduction of 4-H teen cl... Read More


Stitched Smiles: Empowering Youth to Bring Joy to Nursing Home Residents

Stitched Smiles: Empowering Youth to Bring Joy to Nursing Home Residents

about 1 years ago by Lisa Jones

The 4H program is teaching young people valuable home economics skills that are becoming less common... Read More