This lesson plan will introduce the basics of gardening to your homeschooled child. Children will learn how to start seeds indoors, create and care for a garden and
Materials
- Small containers for starting seeds indoors or cell packs with lids
- Seeds
- Soil
- Gardening equipment
- Large pot
- Watering can
Fact File
- Gardening is easy and fun.
- You can easily start growing seeds indoors and then take them outside when the weather is right.
- Plants need the right amount of sun, water and good soil to thrive. It is important to research what you plant to see exactly what it needs.
- Some plants rely on pollination to grow.
- Many plants are edible.
- You can cook and eat the vegetables that you grow.
Activities
Start an indoor garden: It is never too early to start an indoor garden. Visit your local gardening center and pick up some trays with clear covers that will allow you to plant the seeds indoors. Show your child how to push the seeds into the soil and how to make sure the plants are getting adequate sunlight and water. Good seeds to start with include sunflowers, beans, onions or chives, gourds, and basil.
Plant a garden outside: while your seeds are growing inside, take the time to prepare a small garden outside. Your child can transplant the seedlings when the time is right. Have your child help you till a small area that gets good sunlight. Add compost or fertilizer to help nourish the plants. Once the seedlings are ready and last freeze has past, allow your child to plant their outdoor garden. Take the time to show your child how to care and water the garden.
Keep a chart, journal or graph of the rate in which the different plants grow. Compare the information.
Easy to Make Garden Markers: Another good activity is to allow your child to make garden markers to place in the outdoor garden. Save the seed packages and laminate. Glue to a Popsicle stick and place it near the plant.
Start an herb garden: If you do not have enough room to make a garden outside, then try planting an herb garden in a pot. You can buy seeds or herbs that are already growing at your local garden center. Herbs are easy to grow and useful, too.
Field Trip Opportunity
A trip to your local gardening center is an easy field trip and if you call ahead, you may ask a manager to give your child a tour and give you tips on successful home gardening.
A local flower garden or arboretum is another perfect field trip. Check the Internet to find one near you. In addition, visit a local farmer’s market and let children get a first hand look at what others grow in your area.
Wrap-Up
- Kids Gardening is a good resource for gardening with kids. It is filled with activities for children and adults and offers tips and advice to get the best results.
- Master Garden Products is a neat website that offers all sorts of interesting gardening information.
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