San Diego has an abundance of outdoor spaces where kids can explore and learn. Here are garden communities that do just that.
Alta Vista Botanical Gardens
This beautiful hillside garden in Vista connects people with nature and art. Retired teacher, Farmer Jones, offers Kids in the Garden classes to elementary kids the second Saturday each month. This spring, learn about pollinators and celebrate Earth Day. Create art from the garden and participate in other fun activities year round.
Olivewood Gardens
Located on an historic property in National City, Olivewood Gardens focuses on building healthy families through environmental education, hands-on organic gardening and cooking. Visit during Open House in March or May or check the events calendar for public tours and classes. Reserve a spot online.
City Farmers Nursery
With 45 years experience, family-owned City Farmers Nursery in the heart of San Diego offers expert advice and products for growing organic vegetables. Stop by to visit the farm animals, organic produce stand, or attend a free gardening or cooking class. It’s a hidden gem!
The Water Conservation Garden
Need help growing delicious tomatoes? Don’t miss Tomatomania in March at the Water Conservation Garden in East County. The event offers a variety of tomatoes for purchase, plus expert growing advice. Check the website for other classes and tours offered.
New Children’s Museum
Walk through The Garden Project, an outdoor space at the New Children’s Museum (downtown) that introduces kids to growing food, drought tolerant plants and clean, sustainable energy. The New Children’s Museum celebrates their 10-year anniversary this year!
San Diego Botanic Garden
The Hamilton Children’s Garden is a San Diego favorite for adventurous kids! In addition, the Dickinson Family Education Conservatory (opening summer 2018) will be a huge, dynamic space for families to learn to plant, grow and cook with fresh produce. Plans include cooking classes with local chefs and resources to help families establish healthy eating habits.
San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum
Explore a variety of garden and nature-based play spaces at the Children’s Discovery Garden. Explore the Native Plant and Pollinator Gardens, learn about composting and soil regeneration, attend a chicken meet and greet, or build your own play space using natural items and props.
Read the full article “Gardening with Kids: Grow a Lifetime of Healthy Habits” in the digital edition of our March issue.
Cherie Gough is a local mom and freelance writer who loves gardening and trying new, healthy foods with her family.
Published March 2018
------------
