The Green Desk NLI > Resources > The Green Desk AllActivityAffordable SettingsCommunityFundraisingGardeningHealthy EatingInsectsInstallationLoose PartsManagementPathwayPlantsPlaySafetySeasonsWildlifePlanning and Planting Edible Plants for Play and Learning Landscape Plant List Landscape Plants for Play and Learning Climbing Stones and Boulders Starting Seeds in the Spring Sunflower Houses Log Seats Installing a Rain Barrel Sittable Stones and Boulders Summer Play: Beat the Heat Infant and Toddler Pathway Materials Embankment Slides Tree Cookies for Play and Learning Natural Building Natural Playhouse Raised Planters: Timber Construction Safely Installing Planters on Asphalt Naturalizing Chain link Fences Reducing Mosquitoes Reducing bothersome stinging insects Bees, Wasps, and Other Pollinators Preventing stings Primary Pathways Harvesting and Eating Sunflower Seeds Wildflower Patch Natural Materials for Play and Learning Primary Pathway Layout Installing Stepping Stones Autumn Leaves for Play and Learning Raising Funds and Resources for Outdoor Learning Environments Autumn Children’s Books and Outdoor Play More on Physical Activity with Diane Craft Selecting, Installing, and Managing Plants Winter Play and Learning Outdoors Sand Play Areas: Design Draining Wet, Muddy Areas Sensory Gardens Engaging Community Resources Tire Planters Grass Mazes Pathway Installation: Alternatives to concrete Summer Play: Affordable Misting Station Farm to Preschool Theme Gardens Affordable Shade Options Creating a Butterfly Garden Imprinting Concrete with Natural Objects Children’s Vegetable Gardens: Introduction Protecting New Plants Tools & Equipment for Outdoor Learning Environment Installation Concrete Toadstools Early Spring in the Garden Pressure Treated Wood Plant of the Month: March – Spring Starflower Growing Gourds for Birdhouses Spring Outdoor Play: Making the Most of the Season Having a Picnic Growing Tomatoes in Preschool Gardens Seating & Spaces Outdoors to Observe and Just Be Learning About Birds, Bugs, and other Critters Inclusion of Natural Elements in the Play Yard Questions About Digging in the Dirt Beyond the Jack O’ Lanterns: Using Pumpkins to Support Learning Plant of the Month: July – Rabbiteye Blueberry Child Care OLE Regulation FAQ in North Carolina Plant of the Month: August – Passionflower Resources from Toxic Free NC Plant of the Month: September – American Sweetgum PlayDaze for Engaging Outdoor Activity Plant of the Month: April – Redbud Plant of the Month: March – Winter Jasmine Plant of the Month: November – Indian Grass Trail Mix Activity Leaflet