Growing Young Gardeners

Join Horticulturist Amanda Segura as she shares a few great tips to get your children into gardening.

Child using a gardening shovel

LET KIDS DO THE DESIGN

Older kids may want to draw their own garden and decide what to plant where. Younger kids may not be able to, but give them a chance to voice their opinion. Remember, the goal is to get them involved.

Close up shot of a Venus fly trap plant

GET FUN PLANTS

What child can resist bug-eating carnivorous plants like Venus Fly Traps and Pitcher Plants? It’s important to choose plants with your children and see which ones catch their interest.

Child pulling carrots out of the garden

USE EDIBLES

Cultivating your own vegetables is much more exciting than picking them up at the store. Kids of all ages are more likely to try new foods that they helped plant and harvest.

Child holding an earthworm

CREEPY-CRAWLIES ARE COOL

Encourage kids to observe the bugs and insects. Talk to them about the role bugs play in the garden. Older kids can discover new bugs and figure out the purpose they serve.

Lizard sitting in a birdbath

MAKE THE GARDEN A WILDLIFE HABITAT

Try incorporating plants that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Adding a birdbath for both animals and insects can help too. It can be as simple as setting up an old plant saucer full of water.

Child holding a hose to water the garden

KEEP KIDS’ SIZES IN MIND

Make a garden feel more inviting for children by keeping it small and intimate. Give your kids their own child-sized tools. Even if they aren’t doing any “real” gardening, they’ll feel more at home.