Grow together with nature — gardening for families

ReLeaf Center shares practical tips, kid-friendly guides, and expert insights on native plants. Build sustainable gardens that support wildlife, teach curiosity, and create magical outdoor spaces for your family.

Tips for beginners Family-friendly guides Native plant focus

Native plants • Easy to start

Practical gardening tips for families

Simple routines, safe practices, and fun activities kids will love.

Start with a native mini-plot

Choose a sunny, low-maintenance area and plant species that attract pollinators. Let kids help measure, sketch, and observe growth weekly.

Tip: involve kids in soil checks and watering schedules.

Pollinator-friendly watering

Water early mornings to reduce evaporation. Install a simple drip line or soaker hose to minimize waste and keep little feet dry.

Hint: collect rainwater in a barrel for seasonal use.

Bug-friendly beds

Explain beneficial insects and add shallow habitats like log piles or rock piles. Kids learn to observe and release beneficials.

Note: safe, child-friendly garden tools aid learning.

Guides and how-tos

Step-by-step, kid-tested guides to build confidence and curiosity.

Planting native grasses

Seasonal timing, soil prep, and maintenance tips to create soft, wildlife-friendly lawns.

Includes a printable planting calendar.

Seed starting with kids

Quick-start seed trays, fun labeling activities, and gentle science prompts for young gardeners.

Bright, labeled seed packets included.

Creating a native pollinator patch

Plant palettes, bloom times, and habitat features that invite butterflies and bees.

Checklists for beginner and advanced setups.

Native plants for your family garden

Low-maintenance, resilient options that support wildlife and thrive in local climates.

Eastern Bluestar

Shade-tolerant perennial with soft blue blooms and nectar for hummingbirds.

Zones 3-9

Purple Coneflower

Pollinator magnet; sturdy perennial that welcomes kids to observe seed heads.

Drought-tolerant, long bloom

Black-eyed Susan

Bright, cheerful flowers that attract butterflies and support bee populations.

Low water needs