7 Plants You Can Grow With Your Kids

But there’s a way to make that vacation more wholesome and a big learning experience. And that involves getting your hands dirty in the soil along with your little ones.

Gardening is a fantastic way to spend quality time with your children while teaching them about nature, responsibility, and where food comes from. It also helps improve their focus, encourages healthy eating, and is a fun activity that gets everyone’s hands a little dirty - in a good way!

Now if you're wondering where to begin, here are seven easy, fast-growing plants you and your kids can start with, even if you’re new to gardening.

1. Microgreens

Microgreens are one of the fastest and most rewarding plants to grow with children. They sprout quickly - often within 5–7 days - and can be grown in small trays on a windowsill. Popular varieties include mustard, fenugreek (methi), radish, and sunflower. They need only water, sunlight, and a bit of patience before they’re ready to snip and eat.

2. Baby Leaves

Growing baby leaves like spinach or amaranth gives kids a fun introduction to leafy greens. These soft, tender leaves grow quickly from seeds and can be harvested in as little as two weeks. Let your kids sprinkle the seeds, water the soil, and see the transformation each day. They can even make their own salad from the harvest!

3. Lettuce

Lettuce is a great choice for little gardeners because it germinates quickly and doesn’t require deep soil. You can sow it in shallow containers or grow bags. Loose-leaf varieties like romaine and oak leaf can be harvested leaf by leaf, giving your children the joy of picking their own greens for sandwiches or wraps.

4. Radish Round

Radishes are not only quick to grow (ready in 25–30 days) but also fun to harvest. Kids love pulling them out of the soil to find plump red roots. Round radish varieties are perfect for small spaces and container gardens. The crunchy texture and mild spice also make them a fun snack to try together.

5. Basil

Basil is an aromatic herb that children enjoy for its scent and taste. It grows well in pots or balconies and thrives in warm weather. Teach your children to pluck the top leaves to help the plant grow fuller. You can even make a simple basil pesto together, giving them a taste of the rewards of gardening.

6. Coriander

Coriander (also known as dhaniya) is another herb that’s both useful and child-friendly. It grows quickly and doesn’t need much maintenance. You can grow it from coriander seeds you already have in your kitchen. Let your kids sow the seeds, water the pot daily, and watch as the tiny green leaves sprout within a week.

7. Peppermint

Peppermint is a hardy herb with a refreshing smell that most children enjoy. It can be grown from cuttings in pots or recycled containers. Once it takes root, it spreads easily and grows with minimal effort. Kids love rubbing the leaves between their fingers to release the fresh minty scent. You can use the leaves to make homemade mint lemonade or chutney together.

Tips for Gardening with Kids

• Let kids take the lead: Allow children to be hands-on with tasks like sowing seeds, watering, and checking plant growth. When they feel ownership, they’re more likely to stay engaged and excited throughout the process.
• Pick fast-growing plants: Choose plants that sprout quickly - like microgreens, coriander, or lettuce - so kids can see results in just a few days. Fast success keeps them motivated and curious to learn more.
• Keep the tools child-friendly: Use lightweight or small-sized tools suitable for tiny hands. You can even repurpose kitchen items like spoons, old cups, or measuring jugs to make it more approachable and fun.
• Create a daily gardening routine: Establish a set time each day - like morning before school or evening after homework - for checking on the plants. This consistency helps build responsibility and a healthy habit.
• Start small and simple: Begin with a few easy plants in small containers rather than a large, demanding garden. This keeps things manageable and prevents overwhelm for both you and your child.
• Label and decorate together: Let your children make plant markers using craft sticks or stones. They can draw pictures, write names, or add stickers. It makes the garden more personal and fun for them.
• Talk about the process: Explain what’s happening underground or how the sun and water help plants grow. Relating gardening to their science lessons can make it a great learning experience outside the classroom.
• Turn it into a sensory experience: Encourage your kids to feel the soil, smell the herbs, or taste a fresh leaf. Sensory play helps them connect more deeply with the plants and remember what they learn.
• Celebrate harvest days: Make a special occasion out of harvesting. Whether it’s adding basil to pasta or using radish in a sandwich, show your child how their effort leads to real, edible rewards.
• Be patient and praise progress: Plants take time to grow - and kids do too. Celebrate small wins, whether it’s a sprout popping up or a leaf changing colour. Encouragement goes a long way in building confidence and joy.

With these easy, hands-on tips, gardening with your kids becomes more than a hobby - it becomes a shared adventure full of learning, fun, and growth. Whether you’ve got a small balcony space, a sunny windowsill, or a sprawling backyard, there’s always room to plant a little wonder in your child’s world.