Because there are so many different types of gardens that you can create at home, the directions provided in this section are general, and divided into Outdoor or Indoor versions; adapt these instructions to fit your unique garden environment.

Instructions for growing indoors.

Instructions for growing outdoors.

Here are a few of general tips to help you through the planting stage:

You can start your plants from Seeds or Seedlings. This is really a matter of preference. Exposing children to the challenge and satisfaction of seeing a plant go from seed to soup bowl is an exciting option, but might no be the best option if you're working with younger children. There's definitely no shame in going the seedlings route, and it will likely increase your chances of success, especially with crops such as eggplants, peppers, and tomatoes that require a long growing season. Seedlings will grow well in a container that holds 3 to 4 ounces of seed-starting mix, which is one-third to one-half cup. Be sure to punch drainage holes in the bottoms of containers that don't have holes.If you do decide to grow from seed, follow the pre-planting directions on the packet carefully.

Label all your plants immediately after planting them. Include the date they were planted, the date they should be ready to harvest, and the name of the child who planted them. This will keep things organized once it comes time to harvest your garden bounty.

Don't forget about perennials and flowers! As a general rule, it's a good idea to include a few flowers in your garden whether you're growing indoors or outdoors. Flowers add beauty and color to the garden (and the kitchen table if you grow edible varieties like nasturtiums). Flowers can also attract beneficial insects, and in some cases repel undesirable ones.

Put the garden where they will see it: The more kids see their garden, the more they'll notice changes in it and will stay interested in the progress. Whether your garden is in containers on a patio, small pots on a windowsill or in raised beds outdoors, make sure to plant where kids will see it on a daily basis. Otherwise, it's not unlikely that they'll lose interest.

Use creative containers! Planter containers don't have to be specifically designed boxes meant for gardens! Old sinks, toilets, tires...anything can work when you use your imagination! Make it even more fun for kids by allowing them to paint and decorate their planter containers.

If your children are very young, check out this great resource for a number of simple ways to engage kids in the garden (suitable for children aged 3-5).