Gardening with kids

[MamaBearCanada]

Where to start???

I need some advice please.

I have bought tools for me & the kids & some seeds. I have a boxed in raised bed and though about getting some containers but this is the first time I will have planted. I will probably need new soil in the bed as there are weeds in it right now.

Do I just add new soil and then the seeds? Is it that easy??
If I do need new soil what do I get?

[Cradle2crayons]

I mix potting soil, existing soil, and potting mix up in the bed ( after removing all weeds possible) then I put a layer of the potting mix with food built in... On top... Then plant the seeds..I laminate little markers to make them water proof with the name etc....


I also plant mine in one of those 72 little squares planter sets...l and when they get big enough... I move them into my pots... And ask parents to bring pots and send some home with them... That way the kid is so proud to send their flowers home but the daycare has them too... Parents and kids LOVE this!!!

[CrackerJacks]

I am gardening for the first time this year with my kids as well. I have a raised planter box too! Have the kids help you pull all the weeds then have them help you mix up the soil (adding some potting mix. Into the existing soil). Then incorporated some slow release fertilizer. Then I used my finger to make the holes for the seeds and let the kids take turns puting the seeds in the holes. I have a pic of the box right after we planted in my pics. I'll add another one with some of the results. We are growing corn, peas, carrots and brocolli

[itlw8]

if you put 6 layers of newspaper on the bottom it will rot after it smothers the weeds and grass.

You may have the best luck by planting plants not seeds instant results especially if you have a shorter growing season.

radishes grow fast but bolt when the days get warm and longer.

[MamaBearCanada]

Ok I'm going to try the newspaper & the soil mix. Thanks for all the help. Wish me luck Hopefully the kids will like digging in the dirt if nothing else

[Lyss]

the newspaper idea is a good one.

http://sproutrobot.com/ Helps you know when to plant, I have friends that swear by it but I haven't tried it out myself so I'm not sure (plus now that I think about it I'm not sure if its US only asks for zip codes). I usually go off the plant hardiness zone info for my zone

I think the PPs idea about the planting the starter plants vs seeds can help too. I usually do a combination depending on when I get around to planting something. Cucumbers and onions are pretty easy, peas and tomatoes too.

Good luck!!