The West Greene FFA greenhouse continues to serve as both a learning space for students and a valuable resource for the local community. More than just a place to grow plants, the greenhouse gives students hands-on experience in agriculture, business, and responsibility—skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
For members of the West Greene FFA chapter, the greenhouse plays a central role in their education. Students are directly involved in the day-to-day operations, learning how to care for plants from seed to sale. This includes watering, transplanting, monitoring growth, and troubleshooting issues that arise along the way.
In addition to plant care, students also gain experience in running a small business. From organizing inventory to assisting customers, the greenhouse provides a real-world environment where they can develop practical skills that will benefit them in future careers. “The greenhouse is a crucial part of our chapter,” said current chapter president Eryka Hackney. “Our students learn firsthand how to care for plants and properly run a business like the greenhouse.”
This season, the greenhouse is filled with a variety of plants that reflect both tradition and new ideas. Students are currently growing tomatoes and ferns, two popular choices that appeal to many local gardeners. Alongside these staples, the chapter is also offering hanging baskets, which have become a highlight of this year’s selection. According to Hackney, these baskets feature more variety than in previous years, giving customers more options to choose from when decorating their homes and outdoor spaces.
The greenhouse is not only important for students—it also holds significance for the surrounding community. Each year, local residents visit to purchase plants, supporting the program while also investing in their own gardens. This connection creates a sense of mutual benefit: students gain valuable experience, and community members receive quality plants grown locally. It also strengthens ties between the school and the community, making the greenhouse a shared point of pride.
Looking ahead, the West Greene FFA chapter has clear goals for the future of the greenhouse. One of the main objectives is to continue expanding the variety of plants available. By introducing new options and building on what has worked well in the past, the program hopes to attract even more customers and provide students with an even broader learning experience.
This year also brings a period of transition, as the chapter welcomes new advisors. While change can sometimes bring uncertainty, members of the FFA are viewing it as an opportunity for growth and fresh ideas. Hackney emphasized the importance of community support during this time.
“One thing our locals can do is continue to shop at our greenhouse this year,” she said. “New advisors mean growth and new things coming, so we hope people stay optimistic and continue to support us.”
Local residents can play an important role in the greenhouse’s continued success. One of the simplest ways to support the program is by shopping at the greenhouse and spreading the word about what the students are doing.
As the season continues, the West Greene FFA greenhouse stands as a strong example of how education and community can come together. Through hands-on learning and local support, it continues to grow—both for the students involved and for the community it serves.
