Johnsons's Garden Centers Text File document - copyright 2002
PDF file available at http://www.johnsonsgarden.com/newsletter/kidsgardening.html

Gardening with Kids
April/May 2001
Jan Decker, Junior Gardeners' Club Coordinator

    Theme gardens are a good way to spark a kid's interest in gardening.
Your child will have more fun with the planning and care of a garden
when the theme interests him or her. Try these ideas to get you started:
    
    -With Johnson's known as the "Home of the Gnomes" this spring, a
gnome village is the first idea that comes to mind. Think small. Choose
plenty of low-growing, tiny-leafed plants. Gnomes do not eat meat so
they like all sorts of vegetables and herbs. Add a hollow stump, a
shallow pool, and of course some gnome residents.
    
    -Are there any chocolate lovers in the family? Look for plants with
chocolate names or scents. At Johnson's you'll find 'Chocolate Ruffles'
Heuchera (Coral Bells), chocolate mint, and chocolate scented geraniums.
Just for fun, add a topping of cocoa mulch! Be sure to remind the kids
that not everything that smells like chocolate is meant to be eaten.
    
    -Plan ahead for the Fourth of July. Among the favorites for
spectacular red, white and blue color are 'Fantasy Mix' Petunias. Also,
look for plants with names like 'Fireworks.' Wouldn't it be fun to plant
in a little red wagon for a ready-made float to parade around the
neighborhood? Add some American flags for a finishing touch.
    
    Whether started from seeds or plants, the success of your child's
garden is important to us. You can depend on Johnson's to offer the best
quality products and we're always here to answer your questions.