Generational Flower Garden
Most people think of generational as something you pass down from generation to generation, so how would that apply to a garden? Does it mean I need to plant things that will live for tens or hundreds of years? Not necessarily. It would be nice to think that I can plant something now that my great-great grandkids could enjoy but, how about a more immediate reward.
Take your kids and grandkids out to the flower garden with you. There is much for them to learn and enjoy from the garden. You can show them the joy of working with the soil. Most younger kids would love to have an excuse to get dirty and not get in trouble.
Have fun with them getting the flowers started. Pushing a seed into the dirt may not mean much to a young child but later when the plant first pops out of the ground, they will have a special thrill knowing they put that seed in the ground.
Labels here might be a good idea. Each child can put their name on a label next to a plant that they planted. You can share the joy of watching your work become flowers and other plants. Let them know the thrill that comes from having flowers on the dining table that they helped grow.
Instead of passing down the garden, pass down the love of gardening. That is a true generational garden.
© 2005, Dale Wilson