Teaching a child to care for plants is more than just fun and educational. Plant ownership is an incredible opportunity to nurture responsibility, patience, and a genuine love for nature in your kids. Not ready for a pet? Try a plant first! Gardening helps children connect with the environment, learn about growth cycles, and take pride in seeing their efforts bloom. Whether watching tiny sprouts push through the soil or watering their favorite flower daily, the process can be both calming and confidence-boosting.
To make the experience even more enjoyable, it’s essential to start with the right plants that are easy to grow, safe for kids, and rewarding to watch over time. Ready to dig in? We’ve rounded up some of the best beginner-friendly plants to get your little ones started, along with a few great local nurseries where you can find them. From seeds to starter pots, these spots have everything you need to start your child’s gardening journey with success.
Best Plants for Kids
Spider Plant
- The spider plant is hardy and resilient, making it a perfect choice for beginners. Its ability to produce “babies” that can be propagated adds an exciting element for children.
Pothos
- Known for its tolerance to low light, pothos is forgiving if forgotten occasionally. Its trailing vines are visually appealing and can be a great introduction to plant care.
Snake Plant
- This plant is virtually indestructible and can survive in various conditions. Its unique upright leaves make it an interesting addition to any home.
Herbs (like Basil or Mint)
- Fast-growing herbs are not only fun to cultivate but also valuable for cooking. Kids can enjoy the fruits of their labor when they use their homegrown herbs in meals.
Sunflower
- Growing sunflowers from seeds is a delightful experience. Kids will love watching these tall plants bloom brightly, adding color to the garden.
Marigold
- Marigolds are easy to grow and attract beneficial insects, making them an excellent plant for teaching kids about the ecosystem.
Nurseries
We are so lucky to have several nurseries in the Portland area, each offering a unique selection of plants and gardening supplies. Portland is known for its vibrant gardening community, and these nurseries cater to novice gardeners and seasoned horticulturists alike. You can check out Nurseries Perfect For Kids In And Around Portland. To kickstart your gardening journey, here are some excellent nurseries in Portland where you can find a variety of plants and gardening supplies.
Locations: Division and Stark
- Offers a wide selection of plants, gardening supplies, and workshops that can enhance your gardening knowledge.
Location: NE 42nd Ave
- This nursery focuses on eco-friendly gardening and features a selection of kid-friendly plants.
Location: Near Hillsboro
- It offers a range of plants and gardening education, making it a valuable resource for new gardeners.
Locations: Multiple locations around Portland
- A well-known nursery with various plants and gardening tools to assist your gardening endeavors.
Engaging children in plant care teaches them responsibility and nurtures their curiosity about the environment. Starting with easy-to-care-for plants and visiting local nurseries can create an enjoyable and educational gardening experience. These plants and resources will help make the journey into gardening both fun and fulfilling.
What plants would you recommend to start kids with? Are there any that we missed?
Johanna is married with two kids, three dogs, three cats, one leopard gecko, several chickens, and a few fish. She has been in the Pacific Northwest since the dream was alive in the 90s but has Southern roots and hails from Arkansas. The family spends a lot of time at some sort of sporting event for the kids. Johanna likes to fast craft, garden, host parties, and bake. Johanna and her crew go hard traveling, DIY-ing, and are always up for a new adventure or challenge.