MUSCATINE, Iowa–As the summer growing season bursts into full bloom, the Muscatine FFA nursery and landscaping team came into its prime too, winning the state competition. The team’s strong knowledge and cooperative skills helped them stand out and earn the opportunity to compete nationally in the fall.

In the nursery and landscaping competition, students individually completed several identification tests, including plant types, common pests, vital tools, and general knowledge. Then, as a team, students collaborated to create a patio out of pavers and operate a chainsaw and line trimmer.

A contest that incorporates many components, students enjoyed its variety. Senior Jenna Lovstad shared she especially liked, “laying the pavers because we got to work together, and initially it was something I wasn’t expecting.”

“I enjoyed identifying the different plants and tools, and the pavers and the tools,” added junior Caleb Teed.

Muscatine FFA’s state champion nursery and landscaping team: Caleb Teed, Jenna Lovstad, and Kale Wiebel. Photo courtesy of Muscatine FFA.

Winning a state competition represents no easy feat, and the students felt exhilarated that their hard work and cooperation earned them such an honor. “I’m very excited about it–I feel in ecstasy!” Caleb enthused.

Individually, the students placed highly as well. Caleb was the champion individual, with Jenna in fourth place, and Kale Wiebel in 15th place.

State winners of the Nursery and Landscaping contest may continue to the national competition at the FFA National Convention in October. However, the team will have to decide if they want to compete, as two members also have the opportunity to compete in a separate contest because they won state in the Enviorthon earlier this year.