Kids Container Gardening – Growing Vegetables

Kids Container Gardening – Growing Vegetables

Gardening is educational and just plain fun! Container vegetable gardening is a wonderful activity for children, of all ages. Not only will they learn about the growing process, they will enjoy eating the tasty results.

This type of gardening is an excellent choice for class projects or homeschooling families. It requires little space, to get started. Depending on the containers used, it can be quite inexpensive, as well.

Educators, on a tight budget, should consider contacting nurseries and garden centers with donation requests.  Many times these businesses are more than happy to supply materials to classrooms, of eager students.

All containers should be washed out with warm soapy water, before planting. This will remove any substance, which might inhibit proper plant growth. Containers with numerous holes, such as baskets or crates, should be lined with heavy gauge plastic prior to planting. (Poke small holes in plastic, for adequate draining.)

Large containers retain water longer, so plants housed in them don’t need to be watered as frequently.  Porous containers, such as those made of wood or terra-cotta, dry out quickly.  So, more frequent watering is required if those are your vessels of choice. Regardless of the type of containers you use, always remember to water them more often than you would a traditional garden. NEVER allow soil to dry out completely.

There are many vegetables that grow well, in a container garden. Any variety will do, but for optimal results, look for a ‘dwarf’ or ‘miniature’ version, when choosing plants or seeds. These smaller sized vegetables are kid sized, as well.

Tomatoes, carrots, broccoli, peppers and cucumbers grow well, in containers. All of these vegetables require sunlight, to help them grow.  If your container garden is indoors, plant lights can be used when additional sunlight is needed. 

When plants are mature and ready to harvest, simply add lettuce and their favorite salad dressing… then watch them eat and enjoy!