Spring is in full bloom in the New Ulm High School’s horticulture classroom, but for many seniors, that also means senioritis is setting in. Despite the distraction from the sunshine and the 80° teaser last Friday, students are still getting their hands dirty literally as they work on spring planting and floral projects under the guidance of Ms. Covington.

“We want our students to grow just as we want our plants in the greenhouse to grow,” Covington says. “And to remember to always be jolly.”

Horticulture, part of the school’s agricultural department, covers topics such as plant science, greenhouse management, landscaping, and floral design. This hands-on course allows students to gain practical experience and helps prepare them for future careers in horticuluture-related fields. Earlier in the semester, students worked on Valentine’s Day floral arrangements and learned how to make corsages for prom, boutonnieres, and pocket squares. Now, their focus has shifted to growing vegetables for the school’s annual spring plant sale.

“The sale happens every year, but it’s never a huge town-wide event,” says Halle Hinderman, a senior in the class. “Still, we put a lot of effort into growing plants, and thankfully Ms. Covington keeps us on track even when senioritis starts to hit.”

For the plant sale, the class started the growing process by placing seeds in Rockwool starter cubes, which were kept in flat trays with water. In a few days, the seeds sprouted, and students transferred them into the grow tower to encourage further development. They also planted additional seeds in potting soil trays under heat mats, though those have yet to show results.

“It’s a process, and sometimes plants don’t grow the way we expect,” Covington says, ” but as I always tell my students, have a holly jolly day no matter what!”

While some students battle spring fever and senioritis, Ms. Covington is grateful for a mix of upperclassmen and lowerclassmen. The mix of the students helps keep the class balanced and allows for the plants to continue to thrive and be cared for, even after the seniors graduate.

As the greenhouse fills with growing plants, students know their hard work will soon pay off. For those who need a little extra motivation, Covington’s cheerful reminders help keep spirits high even on days when the plants (or the students) need a little extra encouragement.