by Jennifer Austin

Created on: February 27, 2009   Last Updated: September 29, 2010

This spring and summer will be a time of resourcefulness for much of the population. With the down-turned economy, many will be looking for ways to save money and earn a little extra. Gardening can be a wonderful way to do both. It's an opportunity to teach our children how to be entrepreneurs. They also will learn how to be self sufficient in meager times.
Start with the basics, purchase vegetable seeds from a reliable source. Plan your garden according to size and soil types. Many vegetables can be started indoors several weeks before the last frost. This information is easily found on the back of most seed packages. Planting is simple. The children, even toddlers, can help fill containers with soil and push a seed down. Use a watering can with a slower release for younger children to prevent over watering. Watch the seedlings emerge in a few weeks. This is especially exciting for children getting their first dose of the circle of life. Keep the seedlings indoors and moist until the last frost in your area.

Prepare the outdoor garden plot. Choose a location that is level and loosen the soil. This can be done with a garden tiller or for smaller areas, hand tools will be fine. Give each child an area to prepare. Explain how rocks and weeds need to be removed and large clumps of dirt need to be broken down. That is especially fun for kids. They can use a tool to smash it or stomp on it with their feet. You may need to add some soil conditioners, compost or other nutrients to it. To find out what you need, contact the local county extension office or a master Gardener. Some garden centers offer this help as well. Once the area is completely ready, the kids can help plant the seedlings. Follow spacing and depth guides on the seed packages and keep similar plants together. Assign each child a vegetable to be in charge of. That way they have a sense of ownership and pride in the garden. After all the planting is done, have the children water the garden thoroughly.
If you are lacking in space, container gardening is a great option. Each child can still pick their crop of choice and plant the seedling in a container large enough to allow growth. Just be sure the containers are placed somewhere there is adequate sunlight.

In the weeks ahead, there will be daily tasks. Such as, watering and weeding. Have the kids take turns doing these chores. Feeding your garden is a wise idea as well. Making compost from food scraps and yard debris is an inexpensive way to provide essential

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