ENCOURAGING KIDS IN THE GARDEN – WHAT TO PLANT TO ENCOURAGE THEM TO GET INVOLVED!

In today’s busy modern world, helping kids connect with nature can be challenging. Finding time to step outside as a family and grow something together can be incredibly rewarding for children. It fosters their connection with the natural world, teaches them where food really comes from (no, it doesn’t just appear in the store), and encourages healthy eating habits. Of course, even with the best intentions, gardening with kids might not always be the idyllic family moment we imagine—it’s real work! But growing unique and exciting varieties can make gardening far more appealing for children.

Winged Asparagus Beans

Kids will be amazed at these enormous beans when they first appear in the garden. This variety is low-maintenance and reliable, and if properly trellised, their long vines can create fun tunnels or forts for kids to play in. Cut them into slices and you can see the jumping jack inside!

Beetroot Chioggia

Slice into one of these beetroots, and you’ll find a beautiful bullseye pattern inside. Beets are a great choice for children since their sweet, mild taste blends easily into smoothies or even chocolate cake!

Thumbelina Popcorn

This adorable variety is perfect for popping on a winter afternoon. A jar of stored popcorn provides fun that stretches well beyond the growing season.

Redlands White Cucumber

These white cucumbers are a perfect for kids to pick and eat right from the garden. They’re tasty, and the plants are wonderfully productive.

Rainbow Silverbeet

Rainbow-coloured greens can make leafy vegetables more exciting for kids. Their larger seeds are easy for small hands to plant.

Cherry Tomatoes (any variety)

Cherry tomatoes are sweet and juicy, with a flavour kids love! Small enough to pick independently, they’re bound to be a favourite. Just don’t expect too many to make it indoors!

Green Peas

Peas have large seeds that are easy for kids to handle, and the vines are decorated with lovely, sweet-smelling flowers. Harvesting and shelling peas can be a fun family activity.

Jack O’Lantern Pumpkin

What child wouldn’t want to grow their own Halloween pumpkin? Plus, unlike store-bought varieties, you’ll know exactly how these were grown, making them great for eating too.

Moon and Stars Watermelon

If you have space, moon and stars watermelons are stunning to grow. Their rinds have large yellow “moons” and tiny “stars,” creating a magical space-themed snack for kids. If space or season length is limited, sugar baby watermelons are an easier, compact alternative.

Johnny-Jump-Ups

These tiny, edible flowers are easy to grow and fun to nibble, helping children feel at home in the garden.

Nasturtiums

With their whimsical look, vining growth, and lily-pad-like leaves, nasturtiums bring a magical touch to the garden. They’re also fully edible, making them perfect for little ones curious to taste everything.

Giant Russian Sunflowers

With towering 3-metre stalks and impressive 40cm heads, these giant sunflowers are awe-inspiring for both kids and adults. Just make sure any seed-spitting contests happen outdoors!