Introducing children to nature at a young age gives them a jump start on a life filled with an appreciation for mother nature and all she has to offer. From planting a tree to watching butterflies, children are open books waiting to be filled with the joys of mother earth.
August is a good month to sew your fall seeds indoors. From leafy greens to broccoli and onions, there are many fresh vegetables that you can start indoors now, to enjoy a bountiful harvest this fall.
Why not introduce children to this concept? It is a fun project that both you and your children (grandchildren, nieces, nephews, whomever!) can enjoy together. All you need are a few simple items and you will be well on your way to a great fall garden.
Now, there are a couple of different approaches you can take to this project. Obviously, you need to select the veggies you want to grow and purchase the seeds. Next, you need to select a method of growing your seeds indoors. The best options are sewing your seeds in peat pots or in peat pellets. Peat pots are small pots (roughly 3"-4" in height) that you fill with soil and watch your seedlings grow. Once your plants are ready to be planted outdoors, you simply plant everything, pot and all.
Another option is to purchase peat pellets and an "indoor greenhouse." I know this sounds a bit elaborate, but really it is not. Basically, the peat pellets are small discs of soil that are enclosed in mesh that you saturate with water. Once they are saturated, they expand to roughly 2" in height. There is a small opening at the top that you can neatly tuck your seed into. Once you have sewn your seeds into the pellets, you transfer them into the "greenhouse."
Basically, the greenhouse is a small tray (made of plastic) that houses the pellets. It comes equipped with a dome for cover. In essence, the moisture from your pellets (and the warmth of a sunny spot indoors) creates a greenhouse effect. Within no time, you will have seedlings that are ready to be planted in your fall garden. This is a wonderful (and easy) way to start your seeds indoors. Not to mention, a great project that little ones can enjoy, too!
All of the materials needed for this project can be found in the Garden Center at Fairview Greenhouses. Stop by today and start planning your fall garden!
Another Fun Project Idea:
Pressing Your Summer Flowers
