The Dirt on Cranberry Soil

Standards

• Kindergarten-2nd grade: SCI.LS1.C.K, SCI.SEP1.A.K-2, SCI.SEP2.K-2 

• 3rd-5th grade: SCI.LS1.C.5, SCI.SEP1.A.3-5, SCI.SEP2.3-5 

The biggest misconception is that Cranberries grow in water.  While Cranberry growers need ample water to grow cranberries, they do not actually grow in water.   Cranberries grow in well drained, sandy soil.  Layers of soil to be exact!  

Cranberries are a perennial plant which means they grow year after year.  As a cultural practice growers apply sand every 5 years to help rejuvenate the root system.  Take a look at Figure 1.  Can you see all the layers of sand and organic matter? 

Below the sand are even more layers: peat, gravel and clay.  Understanding how cranberries grow better connects consumers and students to their food.

Student Activity

Cranberry Learning has a simple, hands on, delicious way for students to learn about the Cranberry Soil Profile.  After reading a few paragraphs about Cranberry soil the students then participate in building an edible bog in a cup. Various food ingredients can be use.  A sure crowd pleaser is to use pudding, Oreos, vanilla wafers, graham crackers, and sweetened dried cranberries.

The students are sure to remember these cranberry facts learning with all 5 senses.