7 child-friendly plants that are fun and easy – plus expert tips on how to grow them successfully

7 Fun & Safe Plants to Grow with Kids

Gardening with children is a wonderful way to nurture curiosity, responsibility, and a love for nature. Choosing the right plants can make the experience both enjoyable and educational. Here are seven child-friendly plants that are safe, engaging, and easy to grow.

1. Sunflowers

Sunflowers are a classic favorite for kids. Not only are they extremely easy to grow, but the sheer height and size of their blooms make any gardener feel accomplished. These towering flowers can be grown from seed, and children will delight in watching them grow tall and bloom brightly. Plus, the seeds can be harvested and used to feed birds in the garden.

2. Strawberries

Growing strawberries is a great opportunity to engage your child with where food comes from. Tiny hands will love to search among the leaves and pluck the bright, treasure-like ripe fruits – just don't expect many to make it back into the house. For best results, buy young plants or use runners from an existing strawberry patch.

3. Mint

Children love engaging with the smells of plants, and that doesn’t just have to be flowers. They can rub the leaves of mint to release its powerful scent, and even eat the leaves. Mint is tough enough that it won't mind being picked at, making it a perfect plant for little hands to explore.

4. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are not only safe for children but also edible. Both the flowers and leaves are edible, adding a peppery flavor to salads. These plants are easy to grow from seed and thrive in sunny spots. Their vibrant colors and edible nature make them a hit with kids.

5. Lamb’s Ears

Lamb’s ears (Stachys byzantina) provide unbelievably soft and strokeable leaves at ground level; perfectly within reach for even the littlest of little ones. This tactile plant is ideal for edging a path or running along the front of a bed, offering a sensory experience for children.

6. Cosmos

Cosmos are lovely summer flowers that are perfect for a child’s garden. They are non-toxic and generally flower around 12 weeks from sowing. Easy for children to sow, they provide a beautiful visual display and attract wildlife into the garden.

7. Daisies

Daisies are a flower that children often associate with spring. They are extremely easy to grow, and the more they are picked, the more they will produce. Daisies are also great for encouraging bees into your garden with minimal effort.

Quick Answer: Which Plant Engages Kids the Most?

If you're looking for a plant that will captivate children's attention, sunflowers are an excellent choice. Their rapid growth, towering height, and bright blooms provide a sense of accomplishment and wonder, making gardening a fun and rewarding experience for kids.

Tips for Gardening with Children

• Start Small: Begin with a few plants to avoid overwhelming young gardeners.
• Use Safe Tools: Ensure that all gardening tools are child-friendly and safe to use.
• Encourage Exploration: Allow children to touch, smell, and observe the plants closely.
• Make It Fun: Turn gardening into a game or a story to keep children engaged.
• Be Patient: Teach children to care for plants regularly and patiently wait for them to grow.

Gardening with children not only teaches them about nature but also instills valuable life skills. By choosing safe and engaging plants, you can create a garden that is both educational and enjoyable for young minds.