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

Gardening with Kids
September 2001
Jan Decker, Junior Gardeners' Club Coordinator

    Fall is a good time to spend outside with your child observing
seasonal changes. Look for signs that fall is approaching, then keep a
notebook of observations. Note climatic factors as well as plant and
animal clues. What are the sounds, smells, colors, and feelings that
accompany these changes?

    Help your young gardener understand changes in seasons and how
climates vary and how shifts in sunlight, temperature, and moisture
affect all living things.

    A card file on various trees and plants is another good way to add
notes as new discoveries are made. Add a picture taken in each season.

    The garden center is a good place to see different plants that are
in season and kids are always welcome to visit and ask questions. Be
sure to bring the kids to Johnson's Garden Centers during Pansy Mania
Days, Sept. 20-23, so they can pot a pansy to take home and plant in
their fall garden. Pansies thrive in cooler fall temperatures!