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Ages & Stages in the Garden: Ages 9-11

When working with upper elementary youth in a garden consider their physical development and skill level as you develop learning activities. Nine to eleven year olds have better coordination and reaction time by this age, however sometimes dues to growth spurs there can be short-term issues with balance and coordination. Additionally, these children have more body strength and their hand dexterity has increased.

A young girl with a snail-shaped watering can.

Ages & Stages in the Garden: Ages 6-8

A garden can be used to teach many concepts to a board range of ages. When working with early elementary youth you will want to consider characteristics of their development when planning lessons and activities.

several children next to a raised garden

Ages & Stages in the Garden: 4-5 year olds

If considering a garden-based learning program for four to five year-old it is important to understand some of their developmental characteristics prior to planning your program. Young children’s abilities will differ greatly from older youth.

A young master gardener setting up a “make your own seed bomb” station at a seed swap.

How to Organize a Seed Swap

A seed swap is a gathering of people who come together to share seeds, including vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Learn some tips on planning a seed swap event to help build excitement for the upcoming growing season!

Cluster of bright-red poinsettia flowers in bloom.

Are You Photoperiodic? Poinsettias Are: An Explanation of This Unique Plant Process

Poinsettias are photoperiodic, which means they rely on cues from nature, like the shortening day or night, to change how they grow. Learn all about this unique plant process and how it helps Poinsettias bloom and re-bloom.

white fly sitting on a green plant leaf

Biological Control of Pests in High Tunnels

Major insect and mite pests in high tunnels include aphids, thrips, white flies, and spider mites. Biological control uses living organisms (natural enemies) to suppress or limit pest populations to levels that do not cause economic injury to the crop.

High tunnel used for specialty crops

How to Build High Tunnels

A video series developed to help producers learn how to build high tunnels.

Various chemical symbols for common nutrients found in garden soil over a selection of young plants emerging from garden soil.

Managing Phosphorus and Other Nutrients in Gardens

Fact sheet on managing phosphorus and other nutrients in gardens.

Annual trials garden at McCrory Gardens

Square-Foot Garden Sample Planting Layout

Learn how to maximize produce production and space using a square-foot layout design.

a brown bird eating seed from a dried sunflower head.

Native Plants for Bird Habitat in South Dakota

South Dakota has a range of habitats that support many bird species, and native plants play an important role in all those habitats.