CHILDREN'S GARDENS AT THE SHOW

Billy Goodnick taking a picture for his article for Fine Gardening, March 2010 about the Children's Gardens. Thanks to him for this great article!

Since 1998 the Children's Gardens in Sproutopia have been an integral part of the San Francisco Flower & Garden Show. These children's gardens attract a huge audience with their imagination and creativity. Schools from around the Bay Area get involved by creating these small container gardens. Many have themes such as Prehistoric Times or Dr. Seuss; there's even been a “Rainforest” complete with tree house.

By working on a tiny garden, teachers find their students acquire cognitive and hands-on experience in horticulture and garden design. It offers teachers an opportunity to convey principles of biology in a fun way. Every child's garden gets a certificate of participation and ribbons are awarded.

Participants are encouraged to come to the Show to see the results of their efforts. Classes and Centers of all varieties are invited to take part. The Show provides the garden containers, which are plastic propagation flats, 14 inches deep by 18 inches wide by 3 inches high. All you have to provide is the seeds or plants, some creativity, and a few motivated students. (Remember each garden must contain some live plants!)

Space is limited! For information about participating, send an email to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Please include your name, your school's name, your location, and the best way to contact you.