Planting Seeds
Planting seeds is one of the simplest ways to help children connect with nature and experience the excitement of growing something themselves. From the moment the seed is planted, children begin learning about patience, responsibility, and the needs of living things.
One of my favourite parts of this activity is getting creative with what we plant in. You don't need expensive pots. We used egg cartons, toilet rolls, and UHT milk cartons cut in half lengthways, giving old materials a second life while creating growing spaces for our seeds.
Watching the first shoots appear is always exciting and helps children see that even the tiniest seed can grow into something amazing.
You'll Need
• Seeds of your choice
• Potting mix or seed-raising mix
• Water
• Egg cartons, toilet rolls, UHT milk cartons, or plant pots
• Spoon or small trowel
How To
Choose containers for planting.
Egg cartons, toilet rolls, and UHT milk cartons cut in half lengthways all work wonderfully.
Fill each container with potting mix or seed-raising mix.
Make a small hole and plant the seeds according to the packet instructions.
Cover lightly with soil.
Water gently.
Place the containers in a suitable location with appropriate light and warmth.
Check regularly and keep the soil lightly moist.
Observe and record changes as the seeds begin to sprout and grow.
What It Encourages
This activity supports:
• Nature connection
• Responsibility and care
• Patience
• Observation skills
• Understanding of plant life cycles
• Environmental awareness
• Scientific thinking
Planting seeds helps children understand that growth takes time and that living things require ongoing care and attention.
A Last Note
Different seeds grow at different speeds, which can create wonderful opportunities for observation and comparison.
Reusing everyday materials as planters is a great reminder that gardening doesn't need to be expensive. Sometimes the most creative growing spaces come from items that might otherwise have been thrown away.
