Youth Gardening Programs

National Garden Clubs provides many educational opportunities for the youth at the pre-school, elementary, middle and high school level.  The purpose of the youth gardening programs is to introduce gardening, conservation, protection of wildlife, recognition of plants, trees and shrubs, basic flower arrangements, and a love and appreciation of nature. The goal is that they will be future citizens who will be responsible and capable with greater self-expression, dignity, integrity and knowledge of their environment.

Youth Garden Clubs

All clubs of National Garden Clubs may organize and/or sponsor a Youth Garden Club.  The benefits to the students include:

• Introduces the art and science of gardening using fundamental math, reading and writing skills, as well as practical applications
• Increases awareness of the environment, natural resources, ecology, conservation, composting and recycling
• Helps raise standardized test scores, especially in science
• Encourages creativity through observing the cycles of life
• Develops leadership skills
• Provides opportunities for participation and recognition with nationally sponsored contests and awards
• May lead to future hobbies and career opportunities

Each established Youth Garden Club is registered annually with the state garden club, which automatically registers the club as a member of National Garden Clubs.  Further instructions, guidance, and program suggestions are available in the NGC publication, Youth Garden Club Handbook, available from the NGC Official Online Store.

Beginning Floral Design lesson plans are also available from the NGC Official Online Store.

Youth Gardening Programs

Many NGC members work with youth in settings other than a Youth Garden Club.  Youth Gardening Programs by NGC clubs can be affiliated with a school, church, neighborhood, day-care centers or established youth organizations such as Scouts, 4-H, science and ecology clubs, Master Gardeners and Future Farmers of America.

Gardens for Children

Gardening opens whole new areas of exploration, awareness, enjoyment, amazement and learning for children. 

Download this listing of some the Children's Gardens across the United States that were created to spark an interest and love of gardening in children, not only to improve and maintain our environment but for the sheer fun of "digging in the dirt."