For help in establishing a garden, contact your County Extension Agent. They should be able to tell you how to begin and give some literature to explain the process. They also can put you in contact with the Master Gardener program.
Beds. Normally, a bed 4' x 8'. The bed must be in full sun because all vegetables need sun and most must have full sun to produce the quality needed. Use containers if beds are not feasible. (See Gardening Galore Booklet for suggestions.)
Seeds. Local feed stores and garden supply centers are a good source for help, as many of them will donate seeds and plants if they know it is for a school. Students can also bring containers, seeds, and/or plants.
Garden Tools. They will also need a garden tool that can be as simple as a large spoon from home. When planning where to place it your garden outside, be sure to place it where water is accessible.
Planning. It is a good idea to make a diagram of your garden and mark what vegetable is planted where, and which student planted it. Then that student is responsible for caring for that part of the garden.
Tending. Once you have established the bed for the garden or containers, children are usually very eager to work and tend the garden, which leaves less work for the teacher.
Management. It is necessary to establish garden rules and to post them in the classroom or outside near the garden.
Resources. Another source for help would be to contact your local
Master Gardener program, through the County Extension Service. Many of
them enjoy coming out to the schools and helping with the garden. They
will also help with the planting and tending and help instruct the students
on caring for their garden.
Check out this website that might be helpful in
planning the garden:
www.arnprior.com/kidsgarden/index.htm
