Gardening with Kids
Planting Guide
Plant summer-flowering bulbs now. Glads, dahlias, callas, cannas, and lilies will bloom this summer if planted soon. Attract birds to your feeders—goldfinches will visit thistle feeders, and rufous-sided towhees will enjoy seed feeders. Fertilize established roses and begin spraying them for insect and disease problems. Neem oil is an effective, less toxic spray for both pests and diseases. Start begonia bulbs indoors now and transplant them outdoors after the danger of frost has passed to enjoy their flowers this summer. This is the last chance to plant asparagus roots this year; they’ll produce for up to 20 years.
Gardening with Kids
There are many fun ways to interest children in gardening. Unusual or fascinating plants can spark their curiosity:
- Snapdragons (pinch the blossoms to make them "snap")
- Bleeding heart, fuchsias, and balloon flowers
- Honesty (with papery "silver dollar" seed heads)
- Lamb’s ears (soft, furry leaves)
Tall, fast-growing plants captivate children:
- Sunflowers (grow noticeably taller each day)
- Large marigolds, zinnias, cosmos, "dinnerplate" dahlias, gladioli, and lilies
Edible plants make gardening rewarding for kids:
- Sugar snap peas, cherry tomatoes, and strawberries (planted now, they’ll bear fruit this summer)
- Potatoes (plant a sprouting potato and dig for "buried treasure" at harvest—potatoes come in fun colors and shapes)
Garden structures and fragrant flowers add to the fun:
- Bean teepees or sunflower houses for secret hideaways (try scarlet runner beans, morning glories, or moonflowers)
- Sweet peas, honeysuckle, oriental lilies, and lavender (great for bouquets, sachets, or wands)
As kids grow older, give them their own garden space. Let them plant freely—even if they crowd seeds, they’ll learn from the experience. Encourage planting flower bulbs to witness the magic of growth from a dry bulb. Sharing your love of gardening can help children develop a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors.