Lesson Overview

In this lesson, learners will transition from curious observers to active gardeners. They will explore the fundamental needs of plants, design a garden layout based on spatial requirements, and practice the hands-on skill of seed starting. This lesson is designed for a variety of environments, including home backyards, school containers, or community garden plots.

Materials Needed

• Assorted seed packets (vegetables, flowers, or herbs)
• Potting soil or garden soil
• Containers (pots, egg cartons, or a designated outdoor plot)
• Rulers or measuring tapes
• Paper (graph paper preferred) and colored pencils/markers
• Small shovels or spoons
• Watering can or spray bottle
• Craft sticks and a permanent marker (for labels)

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:

• Identify the five basic needs of plants using the "W.A.N.T.S." acronym.
• Interpret information on a seed packet, specifically planting depth and spacing.
• Create a scaled garden map that accounts for the mature size of different plants.
• Demonstrate the correct technique for sowing a seed and labeling a plant site.

1. Introduction: The Magic Within (Hook)

The Hook: Hold up a tiny seed (like a radish or poppy seed). Ask: "How can something smaller than a grain of rice turn into a giant plant that feeds us or makes our world beautiful?"

Discussion: Ask the learner to imagine they are a tiny seed underground. What would they need to feel safe and grow strong? Transition to the W.A.N.T.S. acronym to define plant needs:

• Water: For hydration and nutrient transport.
• Air: Plants need to breathe through their leaves and roots.
• Nutrients: "Food" from the soil (compost/minerals).
• Temperature: Not too hot, not too cold.
• Sunlight: The energy source for photosynthesis.

2. Instruction: Reading the Secret Code (I Do)

Modeling: Pick up a seed packet and show the learner that it contains a "secret code" for success. Demonstrate how to find the following key pieces of information:

• Planting Depth: How deep the seed goes (usually 2x the width of the seed).
• Spacing: How far apart the "adult" plants need to be so they don't crowd each other.
• Days to Maturity: How long until we can eat it or see flowers!

The "Finger Rule": Show the learner how to use their knuckles to measure depth. (e.g., the first knuckle is roughly one inch).

3. Guided Practice: Mapping the Masterpiece (We Do)

Activity: Before digging, we must plan. Using the graph paper, work with the learner to draw the boundaries of their garden space (whether it's a 12-inch pot or a 4x4 foot raised bed).

• The Grid Method: If using a square foot garden approach, divide the map into squares.
• Decision Making: Look at the seed packets together. "If the tomatoes need 18 inches of space, can we fit four of them in this small pot?"
• Color Coding: Have the learner draw where each plant will go. Use taller plants (like corn or sunflowers) on the north side so they don't shade the shorter plants (like lettuce).

4. Independent Application: Getting Dirty (You Do)

The Task: Now the learner takes the lead in the physical planting process following these steps:

1. Soil Prep: Fill containers or loosen garden soil. Ensure it is moist but not soggy.
2. Measuring: Use the ruler to create holes at the exact depth and spacing specified on the map created in the previous step.
3. Sowing: Gently place 2-3 seeds in each spot (this ensures at least one will grow).
4. Tucking In: Cover the seeds with soil and "pat-pat" gently—don't pack it too hard!
5. Labeling: Write the plant name and date on a craft stick and place it at the edge of the planting site.
6. Initial Hydration: Use the spray bottle or watering can to give the seeds their first "drink."

Success Criteria

The learner has successfully completed the lesson if:

• The garden map accurately reflects the spacing requirements of the chosen seeds.
• Seeds are planted at the depth recommended on the packaging.
• The learner can explain why they chose a specific location for a specific plant.
• Each planting area is clearly labeled.

5. Conclusion: Growth Mindset Recap

Summary: Ask the learner to recap the W.A.N.T.S. acronym. Review the map and ask: "What is the very first thing we expect to see popping out of the dirt?"

Reflection: Gardening requires patience. Ask the learner: "What will you do if a seed doesn't grow the first time?" (Encourage the idea of troubleshooting water or sunlight rather than giving up).

Final Takeaway: You are now a steward of the earth! Your job is to provide the "W.A.N.T.S." while the seed does the hard work of growing.

Adaptability & Differentiation

• For Younger Learners (Scaffolding): Focus on "Big Seeds" (beans, peas, sunflowers) which are easier for small hands to handle. Use pre-measured sticks to show depth.
• For Advanced Learners (Extension): Introduce Companion Planting (the idea that some plants, like marigolds and tomatoes, grow better together). Ask them to calculate the area and perimeter of their garden plot.
• For Limited Space: Use the "Vertical Gardening" concept—planting beans or cucumbers that grow up a string or trellis instead of across the ground.

Assessment

• Formative (During): Ask the learner to "read" the seed packet to you and explain what "1/2 inch deep" means.
• Summative (End): Evaluate the garden map for logic and the physical planting for correct spacing/labeling. Provide a "Garden Log" where the learner will record observations over the next week.