When I was growing up, my grandfather had the best vegetable garden. I remember him spending hours in the garden every day during the summer. He would plant, water, weed, and eventually pick his harvest. It was truly a passion and a love affair for him.
He even gave my sister and I a small section, I mean, like a 2 x 1 foot spot each, where we would plant and tend to our own gardens. I don’t think we were ever successful with it, because I don’t remember much of our mini gardens, but I do remember his.
And, not only did my grandfather grow the vegetables, but my grandmother had her hand in the whole experience, too. She would dry the herbs and can the vegetables as he would pick them, especially the tomatoes. They even had a special shelf in the basement to store them, and the supply would last the whole year until the next summer.
I wish I had spent more time with my grandfather in his garden and learned everything he knew about growing the perfect herbs and vegetables. I think this might be the year I actually release my inner farmer and give gardening a shot. No, not a huge garden like my grandfathers, we need to take baby steps here, but more like a pizza garden with the kids.
Now, doesn’t that sound like fun and yummy all in one?
PIZZA GARDEN
I’ve been hearing about pizza gardens for years now, but I haven’t ever committed to giving it a try. They look like so much fun, especially with the kids. It’s a great way to introduce kids to gardening and get them to eat their veggies!!
Pizza gardens are so versatile. They can be as large or small as you want or have space for. You can plant the herbs and veggies that your class or family loves. And, you can even design your garden in pots or planters. Planters can be used outside if your space is limited or inside if you’re looking for a long term project over the winter.
Once your veggies are ready for picking, you can plan your pizza party!
PIZZA GARDENS IN PRESCHOOL
There are so many ways to incorporate this project into your classroom lessons.
Gardening and cooking can strengthen personal qualities for your kids. So you’ll want to talk about things like responsibility, cooperation, and sharing. You can create a chart so your kids can take turns watering, weeding, and caring for the garden.
And, it fits perfectly with so many preschool themes like:
- Garden
- Plants
- Seeds
- Soil
- Composting
- Cooking
- Sun, rain & weather
- Vegetables
This would be a fun addition to your preschool’s summer camp, if you have one.
Growing your pizza garden
I created a Pizza Garden Planner that you can use with the kiddos for planning your pizza garden. You can grab it for free in the mindfulness library. Just add your name and best email below for instant access to your planner and all of the other free goodies that are there. If you already have your password, you can head here.
The planner will help your class decide which plants will be the most ideal for your pizza garden based on their favorite toppings and growing climate. There is space for you to map out a garden in either a rectangular shape or a circular shape, just like a pizza. And, there is a space for your class to brainstorm a list of materials and supplies.
Here are some ideas for your pizza garden:
- Tomatoes
- Onions
- Peppers
- Eggplant
- Broccoli
- Zucchini
- Basil
- Oregano
- Garlic
Since I’m not a gardener, I have to look to the experts for how to actually grow these herbs and vegetables. And, if you don’t have a green thumb like me, then check out Better Homes and Gardens for their version of the pizza garden. The article includes a slide show of the plants and links for how to grow the plants. You know, the details like spacing the plants, sunlight needs, and watering requirements. You’ll also find some useful info about pizza gardening in containers at Bonnie Plants.
MORE FUN THEMED GARDEN IDEAS
Here are more ideas for other fun themed gardens your kids will love:
- Salsa garden- tomatoes, onions, jalapeno peppers, cilantro
- Salad garden- tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers
- Burrito garden- black beans, tomatoes, jalapeno peppers, corn, cilantro
- Stir fry garden- broccoli, peppers, onions, snap peas, carrots, garlic, lemongrass
- Tea garden- chamomile, lavender, mint, ginger
And, let's not forget about dessert. Here are some dessert ideas from the garden:
- Strawberry shortcake
- Pumpkin pie
- Carrot cake
- Chocolate zucchini bread
Don’t forget to download your free planner to get starter. Just click the button for the Mindfulness Library below.
Let me know in the comments which veggies you’re going to plant in your pizza garden and send me some pictures!!
~ Dawn
