Anne Bonny Garden

Growing Together: The Creation of the Anne Bonny Pirate Garden

The Anne Bonny Pirate Garden was started last year at the Piscataquis Community Secondary School in Guilford with the help of several grants including a Maine Outdoor Learning Initiative Grant, National Agriculture in the Classroom Organization Grant and Maine Environmental Education Association Mini Outdoor Grant.

Coordinated by teacher Emily Anderson, those involved in the new school garden project quickly found that building a school garden is more than just planting seeds—it’s about cultivating responsibility, teamwork and a connection to nature. Over the summer of 2024, the middle school students were given the lead to construct raised beds, laying the foundation for what is now a growing outdoor classroom space. This space is not just for the students who built it but for all students across grade levels to explore, learn, and engage with hands-on, real-world science and sustainability issues.

One of the most important aspects of this project has been student ownership. From designing the garden layout to preparing the soil, students have been at the heart of every decision. This spring, they are looking forward to planting their first full season of crops and making choices that align with their interests and the environment. The garden is still developing and being incorporated into their curriculum, offering students the chance to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from them—an invaluable part of the scientific process!

To ensure the garden works with the school year, they have focused on edible and perennial plants that fit within the academic calendar. Examples of ideal crops that fit this perimeter include Garlic which is planted in the fall and harvested in late spring as well as perennials like herbs, berries, and rhubarb that return year after year and create a lasting impact with minimal upkeep.

Starting small has been key to their success. With the help of grants and community support, they began with a few raised beds and are already looking ahead to expanding. Composting, additional planting areas, and more student-driven projects are all part of the vision for the future. The students have especially enjoyed processing the fruits of their labor making pizza sauce, hot sauce, and dehydrating zucchini, kale, and other products they grew.

Though still new, this space is already proving to be more than just a garden—it’s a dynamic learning environment where students can explore, experiment, and take ownership of their education. As they move into the spring growing season, they are excited to see how both the garden and our students continue to flourish!