FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation is applauding local students who have been taking care of and growing plants all year. They were given the seeds in the spring and showed off their work this weekend.
In 2025, more than 15,000 plants and 2,300 seed packets were distributed as part of the Grow It! program.
The following was released:
Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation applauds the commitment and accomplishments of the executive committee of the School Children’s Flower and Vegetable Association (SCFVA) and participating students in the City-Wide Blue-Ribbon Show, September 13, at the McMillen Community Center, 3901 Abbott Street, Fort Wayne. The public were welcome to view student entries beginning at 2:30 p.m., followed by the merit awards ceremony at 2:45 p.m.
This annual show highlights the work of top student gardeners from more than 50 elementary schools and homeschool groups. Each spring, every Fort Wayne student in kindergarten through grade three receives one of eight plant varieties grown by staff at the Lawton Park Greenhouse. Many also select seeds for vegetables, herbs, or flowers to grow at home. School-level shows held each summer culminate in this citywide celebration of gardening and youth achievement.
In 2025, more than 15,000 plants and 2,300 seed packets were distributed, reinforcing a 99-year-old commitment to hands-on learning, responsibility and a lifelong connection to nature.
“For nearly a century, this program has helped children discover the joy of nurturing a living plant and, in turn, cultivating responsibility, patience and pride” observes Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Director Steve McDaniel. “Thanks to the long-standing dedication of the Parks’ Landscape and Horticulture team and now also the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, this legacy not only endures but continues to thrive. We are proud to see the tradition of youth gardening inspire young minds and grow good citizens for the future.”
Looking Ahead: A Fresh Identity for a Beloved Program
As SCFVA nears its 100th anniversary, the program is preparing for a new chapter. Beginning in 2026, the historic association will rebrand as the “Grow It! School Plant Program”—a fresh, student-centered identity that honors the legacy of the SCFVA while making the program more inviting and accessible to today’s schools and families.
“The name ‘Grow It!’ captures the energy, curiosity and hands-on spirit that have always been at the heart of this program,” added Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory Manager Nate Cardelli. “We’re excited to celebrate this tradition while carrying it forward for the next generation of young gardeners.”
More details about the new vision will be shared in the months ahead, leading up to the program’s 100th anniversary.
For more information, visit fortwayneparks.org or follow the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory on social media.
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