Gardening w/ kiddos... HELP

[Samantha Harnack]

A few guys in our neighborhood is turning an empty lot into a neighborhood garden. We are getting a "strip" and I plan on making our section organic (as well as encouraging others to do the same). One problem... I've never had a garden before. I've always been interested but I'm not sure what to plant where or when and that doesn't even include the organic part of it. This is meant to be a project for the summer that will help keep the kids and I occupied as well as give them a sense of where their food comes from and a little ownership in the earth. I just don't want to mess it up with my shortcomings as a gardener.
Do any of you have any suggestions for resources (books, websites, etc.)?
Tips would be much appreciated too.
I've done a couple of searches but it's all very overwhelming so I'm looking for a good place to start.

Thanks in advance!!!

[Stephanie]

Happy Earth Day!!!

I am in a similar situation. I am starting a garden in our backyard, but not sure what to do. We have a local nursery in our neighborhood, and I think I am going to go and ask them what the best things are to plant in our area. I was there a couple days ago to buy some soil and pots and the people were very excited to help me and knew what they were talking about. I don't know where you are located, but if you don't have a local nursery, try Home Depot or Lowes. They usually know a lot about gardening as well.
Good luck and I will be checking back for the same suggestions. Thanks for starting the discussion.

[Jenn Savedge]

I'd start by talking to the folks at your local nursery or garden center. They are usually filled to the brim with info and tips and more than willing to share it (and sell you a few plants in the process!) But seriously, the folks at a local garden center will know what to advise you regarding soil types and what and how to plant in your area.

Other than that...don't stress. Gardening really is fun! Trust me, I never had a garden or knew a thing about it until about 8 years ago. My best advise would be to keep it simple. Tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, and peppers are plants that do really well in my area and are very easy to grow.

Good luck with the garden...if you're kids are like mine, they will LOVE it! And make sure to take lots of pics!!