Science Idea for young gardeners - beans sprouting by Vicky Spelman

Do you have some old CD cases around?  They are perfect for a science experiment to show beans sprouting with some potting soil.   No CDs around – use a glass jar, and some cotton balls or crinkled up paper towels.  Beans are easy to sprout and will benefit from presoaking for several hours – or overnight (up to around 12 hours).

Houseplants bring health and enjoyment to your work and home by Joyce D’Agostino

Photo:  Joyce D’Agostino

In recent years, studies have proven how including plants to our surroundings not only helps to clean the air but to help us improve our mood, concentration and focus.

Housebound? Grab your camera and head outside with the children by Vicky Spelman

Photo: Vicky Spelman ~ Poppies

Encourage your family and friends to garden – get them started by photographing what is going on in your yard and what you are growing.  Or what new Spring flowers are popping up.  Everyone loves seeing daffodils and the early bulbs blooming. 

Housebound? Make simple container greenhouses by Vicky Spelman

       

Courtesy Pinterest

 So, now you probably have many of your seeds started and soon the seedlings will need to be planted up to larger containers but still in need of protection.  Here are some easy to do ideas.  You probably already have the DIY containers around that would work to do this.

Housebound? DIY decorated, individualized garden markers with your children by Vicky Spelman

Photo: Vicky Spelman

So now you’ve got your vegetable garden started – either with some early plantings outside (maybe carrots and peas), some starts inside or you’re working on your garden layout and you’re going to need a way to tell all those plants and varieties apart. 

Housebound? Make a seed tape with children (or one for yourself) by Vicky Spelman

Making a seed tape is easy and a great way to plant seeds, especially little seeds like carrots.  In the photo, a paper towel was used but you could also use toilet tissue or newspaper.  You can make the strips as long as you want but shorter strips are easier to work with and handle.

Housebound? Seed starting ideas to do with children by Vicky Spelman

Pinterest

What about starting some seeds?  You probably already have DIY containers that can be utilized.  

Seeds will germinate in just about anything as long as it holds soil and provides adequate drainage.