“Lets Build a Garden”

Week 1

The launch edition of “Let’s Build A Garden” is all about questions. What does your garden look like now?

It might be an empty window box, it might be a brand new plot, or it might be an established garden that could do with a change.

How can you work with your children on your garden?

What do they see now – make a list. Which colours do you already have in your garden? Do you see specific shapes? Which parts of the garden are in shade? Which parts get the sun? When does the sun reach your window or garden? How much do you want to change? Have you got pets? How much space do they need? Have you got enough room for sports or a trampoline? Is it staying?

How can you plan and work with your parents in their garden, and you in yours?

Could you develop plans for each garden and share with them and us?
Do you think you could agree to get outside at the same time, to start the same things and to compare notes on how you’re getting on?
Could you compare where your garden is now and where their garden is now and the elements you want to change?
If your children are older, then the garden audit could be more serious…

How do I start a garden audit?

What type of soil do you have?

Where does the water come from and flow through the garden? Where does water run-off from hard-standing and decking or is it absorbed? Can your children find out what the geology – what kind of rock you have under your garden? What plant and tree species do you have – which ones appear to be doing better?

What about fences? Are they in good condition? How do you access your garden – do you want to change anything?

Have you got pipes, cables or phone lines to think about?

And the most important question – what would a successful garden project look like for you, your garden and your children?

If you’re working in parallel with your parents or friends who are self-isolating what would success look like for them? Please share your thoughts and ideas by sending through your ideas and answers to marketing@harrowdenturf …and we’ll share with the group for inspiration.

Please share your thoughts and ideas by sending through your ideas to mailto:marketing@harrowdenturf.co.uk

And we’ll share with the group for inspiration.

N.B.
Please note this list is meant only as a list of initial ideas and is not an exhaustive list of everything you should consider. The resources we list are not recommended by us – we are merely providing some sources of material which may prove helpful.

Resources:
https://www.countrysideclassroom.org.uk/
https://schoolgardening.rhs.org.uk/resources
https://schoolgardening.rhs.org.uk/resources/find-a-resource?%3Fso=0&pi=0&ps=10&f=1,7:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/learning/subjects/gardening.shtml
https://www.gardenorganic.org.uk/schools
https://www.tes.com/teachingresources/shop/RHSSchools