Outdoor Learning: Grow a Mini Herb Garden and Learn About Plants

Activity Description:

Teach kids about plants, ecosystems, and sustainable gardening by growing a mini herb garden. This hands-on outdoor activity encourages responsibility, observation skills, and an appreciation for nature while giving kids a fun way to grow their own food.

How to Do It:

1. Choose a Planting Spot

• Pick a sunny area in the backyard, balcony, or even a windowsill.

• Use a small garden bed, flower pots, or recycled containers.

• Ensure the spot gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.

2. Select Easy-to-Grow Herbs

• Basil (fast-growing and fragrant).

• Mint (great for teas and spreads easily).

• Rosemary (a hardy herb that needs little care).

• Chives (easy to grow and great for cooking).

• Parsley (rich in vitamins and grows well in small spaces).

3. Gather Materials

• Small pots or garden soil.

• Seeds or small herb plants.

• Watering can or spray bottle.

• Popsicle sticks or labels for plant names.

4. Plant the Herbs

• Fill the pots with soil, leaving space at the top.

• Place seeds or seedlings into the soil and cover lightly.

• Water gently and place in a sunny location.

5. Create a Gardening Journal

• Have kids draw or write about their herbs’ growth each week.

• Track when each plant sprouts, changes in height, and any new leaves.

• Record how much water and sunlight each plant gets.

6. Learn About Plant Growth

• Teach kids how roots absorb nutrients and why plants need sunlight.

• Explain how pollinators like bees and butterflies help plants grow.

• Discuss the difference between herbs, vegetables, and flowers.

7. Harvest and Use the Herbs

• Once the herbs grow, let kids pick them and use them in cooking.

• Try simple recipes like homemade pesto, mint tea, or adding fresh rosemary to roasted vegetables.

• Let kids taste and smell each herb to learn about different flavors.

8. Experiment with Growth Conditions

• Place one plant in the shade and another in the sun—compare their growth.

• Try growing herbs in different types of soil to see which works best.

• Test how plants react to different amounts of water.

Bonus Tip:

Let kids personalize their herb garden by decorating the pots with paint, stickers, or drawings of the herbs they’re growing!

This outdoor learning activity helps children understand the basics of plant science while giving them hands-on experience in growing their own fresh food.