A Blooming Lunchtime Break: HKUST Community Learns, Plants and Connects with Nature
Taking a refreshing break from the workday, 25 HKUST staff gathered for the "One Person, One Flower" Lunchtime Planting Workshop on 18 June 2026. Jointly organized by the Campus Management Office and Sustainability/Net-Zero Office and facilitated by Baguio, the workshop provided participants with an opportunity to learn practical gardening skills while creating their own potted plant to brighten their workspace or home.
Led by an experienced gardener from Baguio, the workshop introduced participants to the fundamentals of gardening, offering insights into the materials, techniques, and care practices that support healthy plant growth. Participants learned about the roles of different planting materials—including biochar soil conditioner and BG soil (organic soil conditioner)—in creating a suitable growing environment for plants.
Under the gardener's guidance, participants then put their learning into practice by planting their own Begonia flowers. Throughout the hands-on activity, participants actively raised questions not only about the plant they were creating, but also about caring for their own plants at home. Practical gardening tips and experiences were shared, creating an engaging exchange of knowledge on caring for different plant species, overcoming common growing challenges and building confidence in maintaining healthy plants.
Beyond gardening, participants were also introduced to sustainability in practice. Baguio showcased several green products developed by the company, including the Green Sand Bag initiative. Through these examples, participants learned how recycled materials can be transformed into useful products, highlighting innovative approaches to resource recovery and waste reduction while demonstrating how sustainability can be incorporated into everyday life.
By the end of the workshop, each participant took home a small potted plant along with a deeper appreciation for gardening and urban greenery. More than just a planting activity, the workshop provided a relaxing and meaningful opportunity to connect with nature, develop practical gardening skills, and experience the positive impact that greenery can bring to everyday spaces.
As colleagues proudly carried their newly potted plant back to their offices and homes, the workshop demonstrated how a short lunchtime session can foster wellbeing, encourage greater awareness on nature and sustainability, and inspire a stronger connection with the natural world within the HKUST community.
