By Andi Anderson
The Ogle County 4-H Green Thumbs club celebrated a productive and rewarding growing season filled with learning, creativity, and achievement. Through hands-on gardening activities, young members gained valuable experience while developing an appreciation for plants, agriculture, and the natural environment.
The club, which operates as a Special Interest (SPIN) Club, included nine dedicated youth members this year. Throughout the season, participants worked together to plant, maintain, and care for a variety of crops and flowers. Their efforts focused on growing vegetables, herbs, colorful flowers, and creating a pollinator-friendly garden area. Members were also responsible for maintaining five raised garden beds, helping them learn practical gardening skills and the importance of teamwork.
Beyond planting and harvesting, the program encouraged creativity and personal growth. Members applied their knowledge and artistic talents by preparing projects for the Ogle County 4-H Fair. Their entries covered several horticulture-related categories, including Fairy Gardens, Landscape Design, Flower Art, Floral Design, Plant Propagation, and Terrariums. These projects allowed participants to showcase both their gardening knowledge and creative abilities.
One of the season's highlights was the outstanding achievement of Jaylee Breit. Her fairy garden project and artistic display created with dried flowers earned significant recognition at the fair. Jaylee Breit received Grand Champion, State Fair Representative, and Top of Class awards for her work. She later represented her 4-H Club at the Illinois State Fair, demonstrating the high quality of her projects and dedication throughout the season.
An important part of the Green Thumbs program is the continued partnership with the Ogle County Master Gardeners. For several years, including this season, the Master Gardeners have worked closely with club members to provide horticulture education and guidance. Their support helps young participants gain knowledge about plant care, gardening techniques, and environmental stewardship.
Through this mentorship, members build confidence, curiosity, and practical life skills that extend beyond the garden. The experience also encourages responsibility, patience, and problem-solving while helping youth connect with agriculture and nature.
The success of the Ogle County 4-H Green Thumbs program demonstrates the value of youth gardening programs in developing future leaders and lifelong learners. By combining education, creativity, and hands-on experiences, the club continues to provide meaningful opportunities for young people to grow both plants and important life skills.
Photo Credit: pexels-olga-divnaya
Categories: Illinois, Education