Rolling down a great big hill, planting seeds for new dill plants, and hiking were among the activities that the sixth, seventh, and eighth grade ACS students experienced on a recent trip to Deep Cut Gardens and Tatum Park in Middletown, New Jersey.  After a short bus ride down the Garden State Parkway, students found themselves enjoying a day in the great outdoors.

Students were welcomed to the gardens by a resident plant expert and she then shared the history of the gardens. Next, 2 groups were formed. The first group went with the guide where they learned about different types of plant reproduction. The other group went on a self – guided tour of the garden grounds. During their exploration of the gardens the group came across a large hill that called to them to roll down it to their hearts’ delight. They continued exploring the greenhouse, the rockery, and vegetable garden.

When each group had completed both activities, they sat at either the koi pond or at picnic tables in the garden area for lunch. Lunch was followed by a trip to the playground in Tatum Park. Mrs. Lojko led everyone on a very long hike through the trails of the park. By the time the day ended, everyone was ready to take a nap. Luckily, the happy group had a short ride back to school. Many students admitted to going to bed early after their busy day.