Author Sharon Lovejoy on Gardening with Children

Author Sharon Lovejoy on Gardening with Children

Introduction

We had the pleasure of chatting with Sharon Lovejoy, a celebrated author and children’s gardening expert, at the San Francisco Flower & Garden Show. Sharon’s work inspires families to embrace the joys of gardening together, creating meaningful experiences for both parents and children.

Inspiring Children Through Gardening

Sharon believes that gardening is a powerful tool for teaching children about nature, responsibility, and sustainability. Her book, Roots, Shoots, Buckets & Boots: Gardening Together with Children, is a treasure trove of ideas for theme gardens, like a pizza garden or a sunflower house, which spark imagination and curiosity.

Why Gardening with Kids Matters:

  • Hands-On Learning: Kids learn about science and the environment by observing plants grow.
  • Creativity: Theme gardens inspire kids to think creatively.
  • Healthy Eating: Growing vegetables encourages kids to eat fresh produce.

The Magic of Container Gardening

During our interview, Sharon and Tricia explored a round stock tank garden designed by organic farmer Fred Hempel of Baia Nicchia Farm. Sharon highlighted the benefits of metal containers:

  • Durability: Long-lasting and weather-resistant.
  • Soil Temperature Regulation: Ideal for growing heat-loving plants.

To start your own container garden, consider using Metal Raised Garden Beds or repurposed stock tanks for a creative touch.

Sustainable Practices for a Child-Friendly Garden

  1. Avoid Chemicals: Use natural pest control methods, like introducing beneficial insects.
    Recommended Product: Good Bug Blend Cover Crop.
  2. Compost Together: Show kids how to recycle kitchen scraps into rich compost.
  3. Plant Pollinator-Friendly Flowers: Include blooms like marigolds and cosmos to attract bees and butterflies.

Gardening Tips for Beginners

  1. Start Small: Begin with easy-to-grow plants like radishes or lettuce.
  2. Use Child-Friendly Tools: Check out our Kids’ Gardening Tools to make gardening accessible and fun.
  3. Celebrate Success: Harvest together and make recipes with what you grow.

Explore Sharon Lovejoy’s World

Visit Sharon Lovejoy’s website for more inspiration, or watch our full interview on YouTube to hear Sharon’s delightful stories and practical tips.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Carbon-neutral shipping with Shopify Planet
Carbon-neutral shipping on all orders
95299kg
shipping emissions removed
That's like...
243965
miles driven by an average gasoline-powered car
We fund innovations in...
Soil
Forest