Gardening is a wonderful way to teach kids about nature, responsibility, and healthy eating. This list covers the top 10 mail order seed sources that offer kid-friendly varieties, easy-to-grow options, and fun educational experiences. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, these seed companies provide excellent choices to get children excited about gardening.
1. Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds
Baker Creek is renowned for its vast collection of heirloom seeds, including many colorful and unusual varieties that appeal to kids. Their seeds come with detailed planting instructions and stories about each variety, making gardening an educational adventure. The company also offers seed packets in small quantities, perfect for young gardeners who want to try a variety of plants.
2. Burpee Seeds
Burpee is a classic and trusted brand with a dedicated section for kids’ gardening kits and easy-to-grow seeds. Their packets often include fun, kid-friendly plants like sunflowers, cherry tomatoes, and snap peas. Burpee’s clear, step-by-step instructions and germination guarantees help ensure success for young beginners.
3. Seed Savers Exchange
Seed Savers Exchange focuses on preserving heirloom and open-pollinated seeds, many of which are great for family gardens. Their seeds are non-GMO and organic options are available, appealing to parents who want an eco-conscious choice. Their website offers educational resources and kid-friendly varieties like nasturtiums and popcorn corn.
4. Botanical Interests
Botanical Interests offers a wide range of seeds with colorful, illustrated packets that engage kids visually. Their “Sow What?” educational series provides simple gardening tips and fun facts that make planting more interactive. Many of their seeds are easy to grow, such as radishes, carrots, and beans, ideal for young hands.
5. Johnny’s Selected Seeds
Johnny’s Selected Seeds is a well-respected supplier with a good selection of beginner-friendly seeds suitable for children. They provide detailed growing guides and have an excellent reputation for seed quality and germination rates. Their packets include popular kids’ favorites like sugar snap peas and sunflowers.
6. Park Seed Company
Park Seed has been in business since 1868 and offers a special children’s gardening section. Their seed kits often include fun themes like “Grow Your Own Pizza Garden” or “Flower Power,” which help kids learn through themed projects. Their seeds are tested for high germination and come with easy-to-follow instructions.
7. Renee’s Garden Seeds
Renee’s Garden Seeds is known for its beautifully illustrated packets and family-friendly seed varieties. Many of their seeds are selected for flavor and ease of growing, perfect for kids interested in edible gardening. They also offer kid-sized seed kits that include a variety of vegetables and flowers to encourage exploration.
8. Outsidepride
Outsidepride specializes in flower seeds that are great for attracting pollinators, a fun way to introduce kids to the ecosystem. Their seed mixes include easy-to-grow wildflowers and sunflowers, which sprout quickly and add vibrant colors to any garden. The company also offers educational kits ideal for classrooms and home gardens.
9. High Mowing Organic Seeds
High Mowing Organic Seeds offers 100% certified organic seeds, making them a top choice for parents concerned about chemicals. Their catalog includes many kid-friendly vegetables and herbs, such as bush beans and basil, that grow quickly and are rewarding for young gardeners. They provide detailed planting calendars and tips tailored to different climates.
10. KidsGardening Seed Kits
KidsGardening.org offers curated seed kits designed specifically for children, combining education with hands-on fun. These kits often include seeds for fast-growing plants like sunflowers and radishes, plus activity guides that teach gardening basics and biology concepts. The organization’s focus on youth education makes their seed kits a standout for schools and families.
How to Choose
When selecting mail order seed sources for kids, consider seed variety, ease of growth, and educational value. Look for companies that offer clear planting instructions and kid-friendly varieties—fast-growing, colorful, and forgiving plants work best. Organic or non-GMO seeds may be important to some families. Also, consider the packaging size; small packets or seed kits help avoid waste and maintain kids’ interest. Finally, check for additional resources like activity guides or stories that can make gardening more engaging.
Frequently Asked Questions
What seeds are easiest for kids to grow? Sunflowers, radishes, peas, and cherry tomatoes are some of the easiest seeds for kids due to their fast germination and minimal care requirements.
Are heirloom seeds better for kids’ gardens? Heirloom seeds offer interesting varieties with unique colors and flavors that can make gardening more fun, but they require the same care as other seeds.
Can kids plant seeds indoors? Yes, many seeds like herbs and certain vegetables can be started indoors, which is great for year-round gardening and controlled environments.
Do mail order seeds come with instructions? Most reputable seed companies include detailed planting and care instructions, which are especially helpful for young gardeners.
Is it safe for kids to handle seeds? Yes, seeds are generally safe to handle, but it’s best to supervise younger children and ensure they wash hands after gardening.
How long does it take for seeds to sprout? It varies by plant, but many kid-friendly seeds like radishes and sunflowers sprout within 5 to 10 days, keeping children engaged.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right mail order seed source can make all the difference in fostering a child’s love of gardening. The companies listed here provide quality seeds, easy-to-understand instructions, and varieties that keep kids motivated and excited. Whether you’re planting a few pots on a windowsill or starting a backyard garden, these seed sources will help children experience the joy and wonder of growing their own plants.
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