Req 8b5 — Choose a Horticulture Project
8b5.
Do ALL of the requirements in ONE of the following alternatives:
This is the most substantial requirement in Option B. You must complete every sub-requirement within one of the four project tracks—not just selected steps. Each track spans at least one growing season, so choose early and start planting or planning as soon as possible.
Your Options
- Req 8b5a — Bedding Plants Through the Season: Grow bedding plants from seed or cuttings, transplant them to a landscape bed, perform maintenance (mulching, watering, fertilizing, weeding, deadheading) through the end of the season, and explain the differences between annuals and perennials.
- Req 8b5b — Fruit, Berry, and Nut Crops: Plant five fruit, nut, or berry plants; care for them through one season; prune one properly; demonstrate a graft; and describe how a crop is processed.
- Req 8b5c — Woody Ornamentals in the Landscape: Plant five or more trees or shrubs; care for them through one season; prune one; identify and describe 10 landscape trees with common and scientific names; and explain five ways trees improve the environment.
- Req 8b5d — Home Gardening for People and Wildlife: Design and plant a 10×10-foot garden with 10+ plant types; demonstrate 9 garden management techniques; and identify 10 native plants beneficial to birds and wildlife.
How to Choose
| If you… | Best track |
|---|---|
| Want to work with flowers and see fast results | 8b5a Bedding Plants |
| Are interested in food crops and fruit production | 8b5b Fruit, Berry, and Nut Crops |
| Want to work with trees and permanent plantings | 8b5c Woody Ornamentals |
| Want a mixed garden with ecological value | 8b5d Home Gardening |
Space and timing considerations:
- 8b5a and 8b5d work well in a backyard, raised bed, or community garden plot.
- 8b5b and 8b5c require enough space to establish woody plants—at least a portion of a yard or a Scout camp site.
- All tracks require ongoing attention for a full growing season. Start as early in the season as your climate allows.
Only one track is required. Browse the child page for your preferred option, then commit and get started—these projects take time to complete well.