How Do You Start a Garden?

The first thing you need is inspiration.  Kids at Parklawn have found inspiration in history; geometry; love of plants, birds and insects; storybooks; community and our bellies!  Next you need to do research about what plants grow well in your area.  Decide on the plants you want and then buy some seed packets at the store.  Read carefully to find out how deep to plant the seeds and how far apart to plant.  Fourth graders started their seedlings inside.  They have been growing for about three weeks.  The classroom has everything little plants need - a huge window that lets in afternoon sunshine; a grow light for rainy days; a sink for watering; seventeen curious, responsible children; one excited teacher; a cute black gerbil and a lively goldfish.  Our seedlings have a cozy home right where they are, but we look forward to planting them in the Panther Patch as soon as they get big enough to survive on their own.

coriander

carrots

dill

hollyhock

lavender

radishes and fennel

snapdragons

chives, columbine, asters

the over all set-up