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Gardening is a wonderful activity that brings families together and teaches children about nature. Growing flowers like phlox can be a rewarding experience for kids, helping them develop patience and responsibility while enjoying the beauty of their garden.
Why Grow Phlox with Kids?
Phlox is a colorful, easy-to-grow perennial that blooms in summer with vibrant clusters of flowers. Its forgiving nature makes it ideal for children learning to garden. Watching the flowers grow and bloom provides a sense of achievement and encourages a love for gardening.
Getting Started with Planting Phlox
Before planting, gather the necessary tools and materials:
- Phlox seeds or seedlings
- Garden gloves
- Trowel or small shovel
- Compost or organic soil
- Watering can
Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil. Children can help prepare the soil by mixing in compost, which provides nutrients for healthy growth.
Planting and Care Tips
Follow these simple steps to plant phlox with kids:
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball of the seedling.
- Gently place the plant in the hole, making sure the top is level with the soil surface.
- Fill the hole with soil and press gently to remove air pockets.
- Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
After planting, children should help with regular watering, especially during dry spells. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Watching Phlox Grow
Phlox typically blooms in summer, providing a splash of color. Kids can keep a garden journal to record the growth stages and note when flowers appear. This activity teaches observation skills and patience.
Fun Activities and Learning
Growing phlox offers opportunities for fun and education:
- Creating a flower collage with harvested blooms
- Learning about pollinators like bees and butterflies
- Understanding the life cycle of plants
- Practicing responsibility by caring for the garden
Conclusion
Gardening with kids by growing phlox is a delightful way to teach children about nature, responsibility, and patience. Watching their garden flourish can foster a lifelong love of gardening and the outdoors.