Indoor Gardening Ideas for Children

Indoor gardening is a fun project for children any time of the year. Growing plants from seeds teaches kids about plants and how they grow. Children can learn how long it takes a seed to germinate, watering requirements and about photosynthesis. Any type of container can be used for an indoor garden for children. A glass fish bowl allows a child to watch roots develop on the growing plants. Kids will also learn about humidity and its effects on the plants.

Choose the Plants

Kids like to see things happen quickly. Seeds that have a fast germination period are best for an indoor gardening lesson. because waiting for the bloom will try a child's patience. Use this time to explain what is happening inside the plant to produce the flower. Seeds that germinate quickly include marigolds and chamomile.

Watch Them Grow

Different containers can be used for a variety of plants. Try starting seeds in a clay pot or forcing bulbs in a small bowl filled with pebbles. Glass jars open a world of interest when bean seeds are planted along the jar walls. Children can see how the seed starts to germinate and grow. Have children estimate how long it will take the plant to break through the surface of the soil to expose a little sprout.

Terrariums

Plant terrariums filled with cactus plants or other succulents are good indoor gardening ideas for children. Different types of plants or seeds are able to grow in the humid conditions of an indoor terrarium. Bromeliads do well in a warm, humid environment. An old aquarium makes an excellent container to start an indoor terrarium.

References

• Germination Database
• Kids Gardening
• Indoor Gardening Projects

Resources

• Gardening with Kids