How to start a kid-friendly vegetable garden

There’s a natural connection between children and the outdoors. And there’s nothing more special than caring for the Earth and enjoying Mother Nature in the family backyard. Toddlers, children, and teens can explore a new hobby when they get outside and get growing.

This month at Rohrer Seeds, we are encouraging families to start a garden together!

Here are our 5 tips to get kids growing!

1. Let them pick the plants.
   “We’re growing broccoli and cabbage!” said no enthusiastic child ever. Take a trip to your local grocery store or farmer’s market and let the kids pick out their favorite fruits and veggies. Research which ones will grow best in your yard and get ready to plant.
   
   Choose to start seeds for your new garden bed. Rohrer Seeds has seed starting supplies and over 1600 varieties of seeds to choose from so stop in and let us help. Help your kids understand what types of plants will thrive in your yard by asking them to pick out the sunniest and shadiest spots in the yard.
   
   
2. Prep Your Bed
   Before planting, start at the beginning of the process by explaining the uses for different garden tools.  Encourage kids to pick the spots for their new plants. Ask them to check the plant tags for information on spacing and sunlight and then determine the best spot.  Be sure to bring a tape measure.
   
   
3. Plant
   It’s a well-known fact that most children love digging holes. Once they’ve accomplished that task, it’s time to plant. Demonstrate how to gently remove plants from the container and loosen up the roots before planting.
   
   
4. Add nutrients and water
   Just like people, plants need healthy nutrients to grow big and strong. Choose an organic fertilizer such as Espoma’s Bio-Tone Starter Plus to give plants the boost they need.
   
   
5. Create a schedule
   Get kids involved in maintaining the garden by creating a monthly chart that includes days to water and feed. Chart when plants should be ready for harvest and create a countdown for your favorite plants.

Gardens are an awesome way to do something new, healthy, and together! Give it a shot and let us know how we can help!

Rohrer Seeds
2472 Old Philadelphia Pike
Lancaster, PA 17602
717-299-2571
rohrerseeds.com