Water, Weed and Mulch Show them how to use the water- ing can or hose properly, usually watering only when the soil is dry to a depth of one inch. Tey can mix their own non-toxic pesticide out of vinegar and salt, and spread such organic mulches as straw, newspa- per, grass clippings and leaves to discourage weeds.
Get Scientific “Tey can look at the soil to see all the living creatures in it, which is especially fun through a microscope,” says Dixie Sandborn, an exten- sion specialist at Michigan State University. “Tey can learn about vermiculture by making a worm bin and feeding the worms their table scraps.” With a ruler, they can measure the growth of various plants and create a chart comparing rates. By taking photos or draw- ing pictures on a daily or weekly basis, they can compile an album, along with their commentary on weather patterns.
Have Fun “Let them add personal touches like stepping stones, signs and other decorations that let them express their personality in their garden space,” says Pounders. Help them build a scarecrow, bird feeder, toad house, bird bath, sundial or a tent. Make a teepee or small enclosure and cover it with flowers, vines or climbing beans.
Harvest the Crop Aſter picking ripe vegetables, kids can find recipes and prepare snacks or a dish; arrange plucked flowers in vases and take pho- tos; do craſt activities with seeds, plants and flowers, like making potpourri or framing dried flowers; or throw a garden-themed party with favors that include herbs or seed packets. “You could have a ‘pa- jam-a’ party. Kids could wear their pajamas, pick berries, and make jam to take home,” suggests Sandborn.
Ronica A. O’Hara is a Denver-based freelance health writer. Con- nect at
OHaraRonica@gmail.com.
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