Every avid gardener would probably consider their garden to be a magical place full of fun and surprises, but nothing is more magical than sharing your garden with your kids. Many of us were introduced to gardening by a parent, grandparent or a favorite Aunt or Uncle who probably taught us a whole lot more than just about gardening. Children seem to have a natural fascination with the earth and growing things and working side by side with you can help them develop a hobby whose benefits can last a lifetime.
Children like to play and one way to make gardening interesting to them is to incorporate planting with playing. Most kids enjoy “digging in the dirt” so why not try to channel that into helping you turn the soil in the spring to get the garden ready for planting? Small fingers can help plant bigger seeds like beans, peas, and corn and don’t forget “playing” with the watering can or hose. Every gardener needs the right tools and many manufacturers make sturdy tools that are made for the hands of a child. Take the opportunity to teach them how to use the tools properly and how to take care of them so they will last. Finally, kids are great at helping you pick your vegetables. Just tell them which carrot to pull up or the tomato to pull off the vine and you’ve got yourself a harvesting assistant.
As your children get a little older you can give them their own garden space. If they’ve outgrown the sandbox try converting it into a raised garden for them to plant in. If you live in the city than introduce them to container gardening. Give them guidance along the way, but if the seeds aren’t planted in a straight row that’s ok. The key is to keep the garden simple to maintain and let them have input on what they will grow. Steer them toward plants that grow quickly such as zucchini and cucumbers. Don’t forget to add some flowers like marigolds, zinnias and every kid’s favorite, the sunflower. Vines are also fun for kids to grow. Why not try growing morning glories along with the sunflowers that can provide support for the vines? And if you have room, why not let your child grow their own Halloween pumpkin?
Another way to make gardening fun for kids is to help them choose a theme for their garden. If your child likes pizza, create a “pizza garden” with Roma tomatoes, basil, and any other vegetables that they may like to have on their pizza. If they enjoy Mexican food they could grow a “salsa garden” with peppers, cilantro, onions and tomatoes. Consider a “cutting garden” where they can grow zinnias and cosmos for fresh flower arrangements you can have in your home all season long.
Gardening can teach so many things to our kids; they can share what they grow with others and learn about good manners including why you should walk on the pathways and not step on the soil. Weeding and waiting for your seeds to sprout teaches us patience and gardening is great exercise for all of us. This gardening season why not encourage your kids to garden and create a little magic at your house this year!
