Edibles
Tomatoes and Childcare in North Carolina
In December 2010, the ban on growing tomatoes in outdoor learning environments at licensed childcare centers in North Carolina was lifted. Tomatoes can now be grown in the outdoor learning environments of children three years of age and older, as long as proper supervision is in place.
Starting Seeds in the Spring
Starting plants from seeds indoors to be ready for planting the spring garden is a great idea and there are several important considerations to be successful—timing, planting depth, and light for new seedlings.
Safely Installing Planters on Asphalt
Sometimes the best or only option for greening an outdoor learning environment is to install planters directly on asphalt. Several options for safely installing raised planters on ashphalt are provided.
Harvesting and Eating Sunflower Seeds
The birds are attracted to sunflowers in your garden because they benefit from the high nutritional value sunflower seeds provide. They are also preparing for the winter months when there will be less food for them to eat. Sunflower seeds are an excellent source of minerals like potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron as well as vitamin B complex, and a valuable source for protein, fiber and polyunsaturated fat.
Selecting Edible Plants
Learn about selecting edible plants in landscapes designed for children and families.
Growing Edibles in Containers
Container gardening is a great way to grow fresh edible produce in a child care center setting. Children delight in growing and eating their own food. Whether the center staff want to grow a few tasty herbs, a pot of strawberries, or lettuce and tomatoes for delicious salads, there are four keys for successful edible container gardening.