You don’t need a huge yard to experience the benefits of gardening. Container gardens are great for small spaces, and are perfect for balconies, patios, or places where you can’t plant in the ground. You will be amazed by how much food you can grow in just a couple of pots! Starting a garden of your own whether it be in the ground or in containers has so many benefits.
Gardening promotes a healthy lifestyle. Digging, planting, and harvesting vegetables are all great ways to get kids active. Even young children can help by watering plants with a small watering can, or digging or raking soil with child-sized tools. Gardening also teaches important lessons about nutrition and where our food comes from — and even kids who don’t like veggies often get excited about eating the ones they’ve grown themselves!
Gardening brings families together. With hectic schedules and busy lives, it’s more important than ever to make time for family activities. Kids, parents, grandparents and friends can all work together in the garden — there are things for everyone, young and old, to do and learn. A garden is a great way to continue or even start family traditions; children can learn to plant seeds from parents or grandparents, older kids can teach younger ones, and you might even be surprised when your child points out an insect that you wouldn’t have noticed!
Gardening is educational. A garden isn’t just a place to grow tasty fruits and veggies — it’s also a hands-on classroom. In the garden, kids learn about plants, insects, nature and science, as well as curiosity, teamwork, and problem-solving. A plant needs care and attention to thrive — if you neglect it, it will wilt and die. Fortunately, though, plants are resilient and will usually spring back with a good watering. Children learn important lessons about responsibility from tending a garden… and a harvest of delicious fruits and veggies is the best reward!
Gardening is economical. Plant starts and seeds are inexpensive, and garden beds can be built with recycled materials. With a bit of work, your garden will produce delicious fruits and vegetables, saving you money and trips to the grocery store! Many people don’t know that food stamps can be used to purchase food producing seeds and plants.
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