Introducing children to gardening is a gift that will remain with the child the rest of their lives. I can still remember my Mum helping me plant seeds and take cuttings.
My brother and I each had our own small gardens when young. (And look what happened – I have made a career and life out of growing plants!)
A gift for life and learn about science
Our own children have grown up surrounded by plants and loving nature. My advice would be to start young, when the wonders of soil, newly sprouted seeds and bugs are so enchanting to a child. Here are a few gardening projects that our kids enjoyed when they were younger:
- Grow some Gourds & Mini Pumpkins:
These ornamental veggies are easy to grow, the perfect size for little ones. Our kids enjoyed playing with the fruits long after they had harvested them. Plant from seeds or transplants. We have a good selection of Gourds and Pumpkin plants in the greenhouses. - Plant a Runner Bean teepee:
Make a teepee out of 6 foot long bamboo canes and plant Scarlet Runner Bean seeds or plants at the base of each pole. By the end of the summer, the kids will have a great hide out, along with a good crop of fresh beans (harvest young or else you will have to de – string them). - Plant a Sunflower circle:
Plant some tall, branching Sunflowers in a circle to create another great living hideout. Leave the Sunflowers standing through the winter and the kids can watch the birds feast on the seeds. We have transplants available in the greenhouses – try the tall branching variety called Ring of Fire, or plant from seed.
Have fun kids!
P.S. Don’t forget to leave space for a door in the hideouts!
Introducing children to gardening is a gift that will remain with the child the rest of their lives.
