I'LL never forget my first garden.
Mum got a shallow timber tray, helped me fill it with dirt and we sprinkled seeds from a children's garden-mix on top.
A little more dirt to cover the seeds, a sprinkle or water and then I waited. And waited.
The moment I first saw some little bits of green sprouting through the dirt seemed like magic — and a gardener was born.
Time spent in the garden is relaxing beyond compare — and it's never too soon to introduce youngsters to the simple pleasure to be had from working with plants.
Like most things, preparation is the key to success.
Decide whether the garden is going to be in containers or beds and whether it will have flowers, vegetables or both.
Then it's time to hit the shops for supplies.
To give kids that first wondrous magical moment when they spy little spots of green bursting through the soil, it's a good idea to grow plants from seed.
Buy the kids their own equipment including trowels, watering cans, gloves, hats and maybe some waterproof boots.
Do research to ensure the kids' garden is in the right spot and get planting.
One last word of advice: get muddy, have fun and laugh lots.
The dirt will wash out, the plants will be picked and eaten — but those memories will live with the kids forever.
