Backyard Adventures

I didn’t have a garden as a kid. We had shrubs, but no patch of earth to mess with. Adventuring was saved for the playground, where we’d dig for the sake of digging, wander the neighborhood picking wild flowers and occasionally plucking roses from my neighbor’s fence. I was that kid. After apologizing, I was tasked with helping the neighbor with garden chores. I went beyond the fence and was introduced to a rich and fragrant garden. Roses, peonies & clematis, I fell in love. She treated me kindly and took time to teach me about the plants she had grown. A seed was sown.

At seven, five and three my kids are at prime flower picking age. It’s now my turn to encourage their inner gardener. This starts with a garden that’s inclusive of them. Growing interesting, fun flowers and vegetables that they can reach. Showing them what’s alright to cut, and what’s best to leave behind, never discouraging flower picking, just encouraging them towards better options.

Superbells^® Cherry Star Calibrachoa is a hit with my kids with its bright and plentiful blooms. Each pinch encourages a flush of new growth. A classic perennial like Daisy May^® Shasta Daisy has high impact in the garden. Its cut flowers have sturdy stems, perfect for twisted flower crowns, certain to please any prince or princess. If your kid is like I was, then maybe it’s all about the roses. Oso Easy^® Mango Salsa Rose. is a continuous bloomer that’s sure to tempt even the most reformed flower picker.

I’m giving up a little control in my garden. It’s become their playground too. The best advice I can give my kids is this: Be curious, be bold, get dirty and have fun! Everything cleans up in the wash.

^© 2012 Proven Winners, LLC.