The average teenager will describe gardening as boring, but catch them at a young age and give them their own small plot and they may well find it fascinating and the start of a life long passion. There is one proviso and that is the flowers and vegetables must be easy-to-grow since there is nothing worse for a child than to plant seeds with great care, but then find that nothing happens. This article by Amanda from the American Meadows website describes ten of her favorite varieties for a child’s first garden.
A love for gardening doesn?t happen overnight; it?s often introduced and fostered from a young age. If you?re looking to instill your passion for gardening in your children, why not get them started now? Give them their own plot of land in your yard and teach them how to plant, maintain and enjoy the fruits of their labor, while also teaching them the importance of the task at hand. It will not only give you a shared hobby, but also start a future generation of gardeners that our planet desperately needs.
To give your child the best chance for success, we don?t recommend starting him or her off with infamously fussy plants, such as Itoh Peony or Tea Roses. Although this could be one way to teach kids about gardening, it?s best to start with easy-to-grow, quick-blooming varieties that will impress in the first season. This way, you and your little one can check the garden every weekend and track the growth progress, as well as cut and bring the prized blooms (or crops) inside to enjoy.
In preparation for spring planting, we?ve put together 10 of our favorite varieties for a kid?s first garden. All of these flowers and vegetables are extremely easy to grow and should do well in any sunny spot with well-draining soil.
10 of our Favorite Varieties for a Child’s First Garden
Sunflowers. Sunflowers are a classic favorite for kids. Not only are they extremely easy to grow, but the sheer height and size of their blooms makes any gardener feel accomplished (old or young).
Zinnias. One of the easiest plants to grow from seed, Zinnias come in a wide array of colors and bloom all season long until the frost, making a lasting statement in your little one?s garden plot.
Beans. With big seeds that are easy to plant, Beans are a great choice for a child’s first vegetable garden. We recommend planting Bush Beans, which form shorter, bushier plants that are easier for your little one to harvest.
I am a keen gardener and so created Garden Pics and Tips for people who love gardens and enjoy great pictures of plants and gardens. Also covered are practical tips on all aspects of gardening.
