Lisa Ely, who produces HGTV’s coverage of the Rose Parade, and is the author of Kinder Gardens, a series of books on children’s gardening, is available Friday February 3, from 6:30 to 8 a.m. for a live demo to usher in the Garden Program at Charles Helmers Elementary. Ely is the creator of the Karden’s Garden School Garden Curriculum, and will lead hands-on classes that will correlate with concepts the students are learning in their individual grade levels.

In Ely’s presentation, get a glimpse into what it will be like for the K-6 students at Charles Helmers as she sharestips on what to start planning now for a Spring Garden, how to use an ice cream cone to start your plants, or even how to mix the right soil for up-cycled pots from the kitchen!

Karden’s Garden is about inspiring kids and their families to get out and dig in the dirt, and Ely has got all kinds of fun ideas to grow creative minds.

In addition, Ely will have on display her favorite ESPs (Extra Special Plants) to grow in family-friendly gardens. The plants have sensory qualities that encourage children to use their five senses and some that may inspire their imagination. From new and colorful annuals and perennials with pizzaz, to herbs, fruits and vegetables for the kitchen. Come look at plants that look, taste, feel, smell and sound, fun and interesting. Plus other plants that ‘POP’… literally! See how students will use plants to learn about the valley’s rich history or be inspired to create artistic masterpieces.

Classes at Helmers will begin Monday, February 6 and will cover topics including Dirt Basics, Seeds and Planting, Types of Vegetables, and Harvesting.

If you are interested in having a live hit from the school, please contact SUSD PIO Lee Morrell. For more information about Lisa Ely, please call her directly at 310.266.2935