Growing Green: A First Book of Gardening. Illustrated by Daniela Sosa. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2025. $24.99 ages 7 and up

 

"If you don't have much space, a great 
way to grow tomatoes is in a hanging 
basket. You can grow them from seed 
or buy plants from your local garden 
center in late spring/early summer."

While sharing the information about trying to grow tomatoes in a basket, a list of needs is provided: a hanging basket, a liner, compost, tumbling cherry tomato plants, and plant food. Now the gardener is ready to try a hand for a successful harvest. Information is provided as well for season, harvest time and environment for optimal growth. The facing page offers a step-by-step method for preparing the basket, adding and arranging the plants, and providing the care those plants will need before the crop is ready to harvest. 

As well as that, there is a Did You Know? feature: 'Tomato plants were first grown for food by the Aztecs in the Americas. Now, every year in August, 20,000 people gather in the Spanish town of Bunol for an epic tomato-throwing festival. More than 110 tons/100 metric tons of overripe tomatoes are thrown in the streets!'

The tomato is but one of the fruits and vegetables included in this informative and helpful guide to growing your own garden. Other suggestions include strawberries in rain boots, green beans, new potatoes, carrots, sweet corn, pumpkins, avocado pits, celery bottoms, radishes, cressheads, a herb garden, leafy greens, nasturtiums and sunflowers. As you can see from the list, there is no doubt that kids will be keen to try something they are interested in having for their own gardening experience.

The format remains the same throughout and proves to be a welcome guide for interested teachers, parents and their children. The Did You Know? boxes add interest and the illustrations are helpful as the learning begins and continues. If you are considering trying a hand at gardening with your family, this book provides needed information that will make the process easier. The tough part is waiting patiently while the growing happens, before plants can be harvested for delicious consumption. 

                                                                                             

If you would like more information about Earth Day, go to earthday.org to find ways that you can help with initiatives for a healthier planet.