The children's garden is situated in the former reserve (nursery) garden in The Botanic Gardens.  The aim of the garden is to encourage the growing, cooking and eating of healthy food.  The links with the Botanic Gardens will also encourage children’s interest in plants and wider environmental and conservation concerns.

In the summer of 2003 children from Hillhead Primary School grew flowers and vegetables in a plot within the uncommon vegetable garden in the Botanic Gardens.  Support, including the use of suitable tools and Health & Safety advice, was provided by local management at the Gardens.

The site was rather limited in size and access and is required for core Botanic Gardens activities.  A much better site in the former reserve (nursery) garden was identified as a location for an expanded children’s garden.

This received enthusiastic support from the organisers of the children’s garden.  Land Services have supported the project and carried out the necessary ground work and landscaping using apprentice gardeners.

what the children will learn about Sowing and planting Growing vegetables and flowers, including their identification Cropping, picking, preparing and eating the food grown Being outdoors as a healthy and fun activity Nature – weeds, insects etc.

This may be an experience that children in the city have not gained and will involve adults too, particularly parents and carers.  The project also encourages greater use of the resources within the Botanic Gardens.

The Management Committee of the children’s garden is made up from parents of local children and involves several local primary schools, with the general manager of the Botanic Gardens having overall responsibility for the site.

The children’s garden has been designed to ensure ease of access for all users.


Useful Links

www.weegarden.co.uk - The website of The Children's Garden