With flowers and trees blooming and temperatures on the upswing, it was the perfect time for second graders at Forest Lake Elementary School in the Wantagh School District to learn about gardening. The return of spring weather signaled a visit from News 12 meteorologist and expert gardener Alex Calamia on May 1. 

Mr. Calamia first spoke about his career as a meteorologist and explained the different types of weather he has encountered in his career, throughout different parts of the country. He then moved on to talk about the fruits, vegetables and plants he grows. 

He noted that plants are “nature’s thermometer” because of how they respond to weather changes, and with everything blooming, that means warmer air is here. During a trivia game, Mr. Calamia taught students how different types of fruits grow, including bananas, pineapple and watermelon.

As second graders prepare to begin a new science unit on weather, plants and erosion, Mr. Calamia’s expertise was very beneficial. He closed out his visit with a question-and-answer session. Students asked him about the weather, his garden and what it’s like to be on television.