The Brenham Elementary Sensory Garden is a part of the Outdoor Learning Center of the Brenham Independent School District. It is was designed and implemented by the Herb Society of America, Pioneer Unit, along with many other volunteers and supporters, for educating children from pre-kindergarten through 4th grade.
The main garden is divided into beds that relate plants to the five senses. The central “spectrum” bed is a color wheel that is planted with annual flowering plants and represents the sense of sight. Four surrounding raised beds contain various plants that represent the senses of smell, touch, taste and hearing.
There is an “Alphabet Walk” used by the kindergarten and first grade to reinforce their knowledge of the alphabet. Each letter of the alphabet is represented by herbs, shrubs and small trees. “A is for apple” to “Z is for zebra grass”.
The most recent installation was the zoo bed. It is raised beds that contain plants that have animal names, such as “shrimp plant” and “lion’s tail.”
Volunteer activities include routine maintenance of the garden, working with teachers to educate the children about the plants, and introduce the children and adults alike to the use and delight of herbs.
Location: 1000 W Blue Bell Rd Brenham, TX 77833
