Gardening with Kids: Fun, Easy Projects for All Ages

The Burdekin, with its warm climate and fertile soil, is the perfect place to introduce kids to the joys of gardening. Whether you have a large backyard or a small space, there are plenty of simple projects to get kids excited about planting, growing, and caring for their own garden.

Here are some easy and fun gardening projects for kids that thrive in our local climate.

Planting Easy-to-Grow Veggies

North Queensland’s climate is great for growing vegetables, and kids love seeing their efforts turn into something edible. Start with fast-growing plants like tomatoes, beans, and sweet corn. These plants provide quick results to keep kids engaged.

How to do it:

Choose a sunny spot and prepare the soil by loosening it with a spade.

Let kids pick out their favourite veggies.

Show them how to plant seeds at the right depth and water them regularly.

Kids will not only learn how food is grown but will enjoy eating the vegetables they’ve grown.

Creating a Butterfly or Pollinator Garden

A pollinator garden helps kids learn about the importance of bees, butterflies, and other insects. In the Burdekin, a variety of pollinators are naturally attracted to the right plants.

How to do it:

Plant nectar-rich flowers like marigolds, zinnias, sunflowers, and native plants such as Grevilleas.

Let kids help with planting seeds or seedlings in containers or garden beds.

Teach them about the role of pollinators, making it a fun scavenger hunt to spot visiting bees and butterflies.

This project is perfect for teaching kids about wildlife and the environment.

Making a DIY Herb Garden

Herbs are a great option for gardening with kids. They grow quickly, are easy to care for, and can be used in cooking. Herbs like basil, mint, and rosemary thrive in the Burdekin’s climate.

How to do it:

Use small pots or repurposed containers for an upcycled herb garden.

Help kids plant seeds or young plants like basil, parsley, and mint.

Teach them how to water and trim the herbs as they grow.

Kids will take pride in using their own fresh herbs in family meals.

Building a Simple Bird Feeder

A bird feeder is an exciting way for kids to observe local birds up close. It teaches them about the environment and encourages wildlife to visit the garden.

How to do it:

Create a basic bird feeder using a toilet paper roll, peanut butter, and birdseed.

Roll the peanut butter-covered toilet roll in birdseed and hang it from a tree branch or fence.

This activity helps kids connect with nature and learn about bird species common in the Burdekin.

Creating a Sensory Garden

A sensory garden is perfect for younger children. It engages their senses through plants with interesting textures, smells, and colours.

How to do it:

Plant fragrant flowers like lavender, plants with unique textures (such as lamb’s ear), and colourful flowers like marigolds.

Encourage kids to touch, smell, and describe the plants.

This project helps kids appreciate different textures and smells while enjoying the outdoors.

Gardening is a wonderful way for Burdekin families to bond and connect with nature. With our region’s ideal climate, there’s no limit to the projects you can try. Grab a spade and let your kids experience the magic of watching plants grow!

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