Let them take ownership
Treat them to their very own special plant-care kit and give them an allocated corner of the house they can call their own. Having their own ‘grown-up’ tools and the responsibility of looking after their own patch will give them a sense of pride and purpose and spur them on to do a great job of tending “MY” plants.
Tropical plants, such as banana plants, and unusual plants, like so called ‘tickle me plants’ which react to touch such as mimosa plants, are likewise sure to keep kids interest.
Watching bulbs grow can be fascinating – try a selection of hyacinth, daffodil, or tulip in a glass jar or vase so kids can watch the roots as well as the shoots.
Herbs
Herb gardens are great fun for kids – not only do they look great and smell fabulous, you can cook with them, too! Ask them to close their eyes and identify each one by the smell alone. Mint, coriander, basil, lemon thyme and rosemary all have deliciously distinctive aromas. When they’re ready, bake up a batch of herby scones so they can enjoy the spoils of their hard work.
