Fragrance at Your Fingertips, Wonder in a Bottle | Recap of the "Qiushi Academy" Five-Education Salon Farm Study Activity

In the lingering clarity of late spring, fragrant breezes nurture all living things. In April 2026, the "Qiushi Academy" Five-Education Salon activity, meticulously organized by the Qiushi Workstation of the SEU Party Committee Student Affairs Department, set sail once again. This event took place at the WuzhiyuanAromatic Herb Farm, featuring a combination of botanical education and hands-on practice, offering participants a nature-based learning journey that was both informative and experiential.

1. Botanical Education

The agricultural science instructor, a veritable "encyclopedia of plants," delivered engaging and accessible explanations. From lemongrass and lemon balm to mint, mugwort, and rosemary, the instructor elaborated on the growth habits and practical uses of these aromatic plants.

Students identified the scents by rubbing the leaves between their fingers. Under the instructor’s guidance, they personally assembled invigorating essential oils—natural, practical, and a unique "exclusive natural keepsake" to take home. A student translator also assisted with explanations, fostering a warm and interactive atmosphere throughout.

2. Planting Practice

Led by the instructor, participants embarked on a relaxed "botanical sightseeing tour" and engaged in hands-on work inside the greenhouse. Using lemon balm as an example, students learned about its preference for sunlight and strong moisture tolerance. After receiving their pots, they carefully planted rooted seedlings, ensuring the roots were properly covered and stabilized. The instructor also shared practical watering principles and guided students in trimming some stems and leaves to take home for maintenance. Tender stems and leaves, they were told, could be used directly for seasoning or making tea.

3. Making a Carnivorous Plant Terrarium

The most anticipated segment—creating a "fascinating carnivorous plant bottle"—arrived as scheduled. This activity involved combining insect-eating plants such as Venus flytraps and pitcher plants with glass containers to form miniature ecological displays of unique shapes and high ornamental value. Students laid a drainage layer of pebbles at the bottom of the bottle, followed by a specialized substrate mixed with various mosses and rocks.

At the end of the activity, the instructor also introduced the natural beauty of edible roses and other flowers, allowing interested students to take some as keepsakes. Carrying their handcrafted works, everyone posed for a group photo under the warm sunlight, radiating a strong sense of accomplishment.

This "Qiushi Academy" farm study activity successfully achieved a deep integration of labor education and aesthetic education. Participants expanded their knowledge through scientific exploration and honed their patience and focus through hands-on practice. Moving forward, the Qiushi Workstation will continue exploring innovative forms of integrating the five dimensions of education, guiding SEUers to experience beauty and achieve growth through practice.

Source: Qiushi Workstation, SEU Party Committee Student Affairs Department