25 Fast-Growing Seeds For Kids To Plant Today (2024)

Nurturing a love for nature starts from an early age, and it’s the perfect time of year to start planning your garden!

Gardening with my kids is one of my favorite ways to spend time outside with them. They love clipping flowers from our garden, watering the plants, and seeing what grows well at different times of the year.

Today, we’re excited to present a fantastic opportunity for your little green thumbs to get their hands dirty and embark on a journey of discovery. 

This comprehensive guide to the best seeds to kids is a great way to ignite your child’s passion for gardening and witness the magic of nature unfold right before their eyes. 

From familiar foods to beautiful flowers, there are plenty of options for kids to choose from.

Whether you have a spacious backyard or a cozy windowsill with plastic cups or flower pots, this blog post will provide you with a handpicked selection of seeds that are not only easy to grow but also promise speedy results. 

So, let’s dig in and watch your child’s excitement blossom as they embark on this fun and educational adventure of planting seeds that sprout into vibrant plants in no time!

Note: Different seeds require slightly different care. We’ve included planting instruction below depending on the type of seed.

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1. Sunflowers

Sunflowers are tall, bright flowers that can grow several feet high. Sunflower seeds thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil. Kids will enjoy their cheerful appearance and watching the flower heads turn to follow the sun.

Planting Instructions:

1. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
2. Plant sunflower seeds directly into the soil, spacing them 6-12 inches apart.
3. Plant seeds 1 inch deep and cover with soil.
4. Water thoroughly with warm water after planting and keep the soil evenly moist.
5. Provide support with stakes or a trellis as the plants grow taller.
6. Thin seedlings if needed to give plants more space to grow.
7. Remove weeds regularly to minimize competition.
8. Protect from pests using organic methods or netting.
9. Incorporate compost or slow-release fertilizer before planting.
10. Monitor for stress or nutrient deficiencies and supplement as needed.
11. Water deeply during dry periods, ensuring water reaches the roots.
12. Gently turn young sunflowers to face the sun for even growth.
13. Germination time: Sunflower seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days.

By following these simple instructions, kids can successfully plant and care for sunflowers, enjoying the beautiful blooms and the joy of nurturing their own garden.

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2. Radishes

Radishes are fast-growing root vegetables that can be ready to harvest in as little as three weeks. Radish seeds prefer cool temperatures and well-drained soil. Kids will be fascinated by their vibrant colors and the satisfying crunch when they bite into them.

Seed Planting Instructions:

1. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
2. Sow radish seeds directly into the soil, spacing them 1-2 inches apart.
3. Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep and cover with soil.
4. Water gently after planting and keep the soil consistently moist.
5. Thin seedlings if needed to provide proper spacing for growth.
6. Remove weeds regularly to minimize competition.
7. Radish seeds typically germinate within 4-7 days.
8. Harvest radishes when they reach the desired size, usually within 20-30 days of planting.

By following these simple instructions, kids can easily plant and care for radishes, enjoying the quick germination and the satisfaction of harvesting their own crunchy and flavorful radishes.

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3. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are beautiful, edible flowers with round leaves. These easy plants prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Kids will love their vivid colors and peppery taste, making them a fun addition to salads or as a garnish.

Planting Instructions:

1. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
2. Sow nasturtium seeds directly into the soil after the last frost.
3. Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep and space them 6-12 inches apart.
4. Water gently after planting and keep the soil evenly moist.
5. Nasturtium seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days.
6. Provide support or trellis for climbing varieties, if desired.
7. Remove weeds regularly to minimize competition.
8. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can result in excessive foliage growth instead of flowers.
9. Enjoy a profusion of colorful flowers and edible leaves throughout the growing season.
10. Nasturtiums are known for their ability to attract beneficial insects to the garden.

By following these simple instructions, kids can plant and care for nasturtiums, enjoying the relatively quick germination and the vibrant, cheerful flowers that will add beauty to their garden while also attracting beneficial insects.

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4. Lettuce

Lettuce is a leafy green vegetable that grows quickly and can be harvested for salads within a few weeks. Lettuce seeds prefer cooler temperatures and partial shade. Kids will enjoy growing their own fresh lettuce and it’s a fantastic way to get them to enjoy their salads more!

Planting Instructions:

1. Choose a location with partial shade to full sun, depending on the variety.
2. Sow lettuce seeds directly into the soil or in containers.
3. Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 6-12 inches apart, depending on the lettuce type.
4. Water gently after planting and keep the soil consistently moist.
5. Lettuce seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days.
6. Thin seedlings if needed to provide adequate space for growth and prevent overcrowding.
7. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the lettuce plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
8. Provide regular, even watering to prevent bitterness and bolting (premature flowering).
9. Harvest lettuce leaves when they reach the desired size, usually within 30-60 days.
10. Enjoy fresh, crisp lettuce for salads and sandwiches.

By following these simple instructions, kids can easily plant and care for lettuce, enjoying the relatively quick germination and the opportunity to harvest their own fresh and nutritious salad greens.

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5. Peas

Peas are climbing plants that produce sweet pods filled with tasty peas. Pea seeds thrive in cooler temperatures and well-drained soil. Kids will have fun watching the tendrils curl and the vines climb, eventually rewarding them with delicious, edible pods. They’re a wonderful addition to any vegetable garden.

Planting Instructions:

1. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
2. Sow pea seeds directly into the soil after the last frost.
3. Plant seeds 1-2 inches deep and space them 2-4 inches apart.
4. Create support structures such as trellises or stakes for climbing varieties.
5. Water gently after planting and keep the soil consistently moist, especially during flowering and pod development.
6. Pea seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days.
7. Mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
8. As the pea plants grow, train them to climb the supports for better airflow and easier harvesting.
9. Avoid over-fertilizing, as peas fix nitrogen in the soil naturally.
10. Harvest the peas when the pods are plump and the peas are tender, usually within 60-70 days depending on the variety.
11. Enjoy fresh peas raw, steamed, or in various delicious recipes.

By following these simple instructions, kids can plant and care for peas, enjoying the relatively quick germination and the satisfaction of harvesting their own sweet and nutritious peas.

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6. Beans

Beans are fast-growing plants that produce pods filled with beans. These easy seeds prefer warm temperatures and well-drained soil. Kids will be fascinated by the way the plants twine around supports and the joy of harvesting their own green beans.

Planting Instructions:

1. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
2. Sow bean seeds directly into the soil after the last frost.
3. Plant seeds 1-2 inches deep and space them 4-6 inches apart.
4. Create support structures such as trellises or stakes for climbing varieties.
5. Water gently after planting and keep the soil consistently moist.
6. Bean seeds typically germinate within 7-10 days.
7. Mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
8. Provide regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist.
9. Avoid over-fertilizing, as beans fix nitrogen in the soil naturally.
10. Harvest the beans when they are young and tender, before the seeds inside fully develop.

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7. Zinnias

Zinnias are colorful, daisy-like flowers that come in a variety of vibrant shades. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. The great thing about zinnias is their array of colors and the butterflies that are attracted to these beautiful blooms. Pick them up the next time you’re at the garden center – you won’t regret it!

Planting Instructions:

1. Choose a location with full sun.
2. Sow zinnia seeds directly into the soil after the last frost.
3. Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 6-12 inches apart, depending on the variety.
4. Water gently after planting and keep the soil consistently moist until germination.
5. Zinnia seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days.
6. Once established, water the plants deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
7. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming.
8. Mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
9. Enjoy a vibrant display of colorful flowers throughout the summer and into the fall.

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8. Basil

Kids love edible plants, and basil is a fragrant herb with small, tender leaves. These quick-growing seeds thrives in warm temperatures and well-drained soil. Young children will love the delightful aroma of basil and can use it in their culinary adventures, adding a burst of flavor to dishes.

Planting Instructions:

1. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
2. Sow basil seeds directly into the soil after the danger of frost has passed.
3. Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 8-12 inches apart.
4. Water gently after planting and keep the soil consistently moist until germination.
5. Basil seeds typically germinate within 7-10 days.
6. Once the plants are established, water them deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
7. Pinch or prune the basil plants regularly to promote bushier growth and prevent flowering.
8. Harvest basil leaves as needed, starting from the top, for fresh use or drying.

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9. Marigolds

Marigolds are cheerful annual flowers with vibrant yellow and orange hues. It’s the perfect way to brighten up your garden. They prefer full sun and it’s a good idea to keep the soil well-drained. Kids will be attracted to their bright colors and can learn about their pest-repelling properties, making them a great addition to a garden.

Planting Instructions:

1. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
2. Sow marigold seeds directly into the soil after the last frost.
3. Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 6-12 inches apart, depending on the variety.
4. Water gently after planting and keep the soil consistently moist until germination.
5. Marigold seeds typically germinate within 4-14 days.
6. Once the plants are established, water them deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
7. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming.
8. Marigolds are known for their ability to repel certain pests, making them a great companion plant in the garden.

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10. Cucumbers

Cucumbers are fast-growing vines that produce refreshing, crunchy fruits. These vegetable seeds thrive in warm temperatures and well-drained soil. Kids will enjoy the thrill of watching their vines spread and the satisfaction of harvesting their own cucumbers for salads and snacks.

Planting Instructions:

1. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
2. Sow cucumber seeds directly into the soil after the danger of frost has passed.
3. Plant seeds 1 inch deep and space them 12-24 inches apart, depending on the cucumber variety.
4. Provide support structures such as trellises or stakes for vining varieties.
5. Water gently after planting and keep the soil consistently moist until germination.
6. Cucumber seeds typically germinate within 7-10 days.
7. Once the plants are established, water deeply and regularly, aiming for at least 1 inch of water per week.
8. Mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
9. Harvest cucumbers when they reach the desired size, usually within 50-70 days depending on the variety.

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11. Morning Glories

Morning glories are beautiful, trumpet-shaped purple flowers that come in a variety of colors. These fun plants prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Kids will be captivated by their vibrant blooms and the way they open in the morning and close in the afternoon.

Planting Instructions:

1. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
2. Sow morning glory seeds directly into the soil after the last frost.
3. Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 6-12 inches apart in your garden space.
4. Water gently after planting and keep the soil consistently moist until germination.
5. Morning glory seeds typically germinate within 7-21 days.
6. Once the plants are established, water them deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
7. Provide support structures such as trellises or fences for morning glory vines to climb.
8. Enjoy the beautiful, trumpet-shaped flowers that open in the morning and close in the afternoon.

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12. Cherry Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes are small, bite-sized tomatoes that are perfect for snacking. It’s a familiar food for kids. For best results, they prefer full sun and well-drained soil. An added bonus? Kids will love the sweet flavor of these little gems and the excitement of plucking them from the vine.

Planting Instructions:

1. Start cherry tomato seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date or purchase young plants from a nursery.
2. Fill seed trays or pots with seed-starting mix and sow seeds 1/4 inch deep.
3. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide warmth (around 70-80°F or 21-27°C) for germination.
4. Tomato seeds typically germinate within 5-10 days.
5. Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, transplant them into larger pots or containers, or into a sunny garden bed with well-drained soil after the danger of frost has passed.
6. Space the cherry tomato plants 24-36 inches apart to allow for proper growth and airflow.
7. Provide support for the plants using stakes or cages to keep the vines upright as they grow.
8. Water the plants regularly, aiming for about 1 inch of water per week, and adjust as needed depending on weather conditions.
9. Place a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture and prevent weeds.
10. Fertilize the plants with a balanced tomato fertilizer according to the package instructions, usually every few weeks.
11. Monitor for pests and diseases and take appropriate measures to control them.
12. Harvest ripe cherry tomatoes when they are fully colored and slightly soft to the touch.

By following these planting instructions, kids can start cherry tomato seeds indoors and later transfer them to the garden, enjoying the process of growing their own sweet and bite-sized tomatoes. Germination usually occurs within 5-10 days, and with proper care, kids can look forward to a bountiful harvest of cherry tomatoes.

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13. Dill

Dill is an aromatic herb with feathery leaves. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Kids will enjoy the distinctive smell of dill and can use it in their cooking or observe butterflies and bees attracted to its yellow flowers.

Planting Instructions:

1. Choose a location with full sun and well-drained soil.
2. Sow dill seeds directly into the soil after the danger of frost has passed.
3. Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 12-18 inches apart.
4. Water gently after planting and keep the soil consistently moist until germination.
5. Dill seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days.
6. Once the plants are established, water them deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
7. Provide support or stakes for taller dill varieties, if needed.
8. Harvest dill leaves when they are young and flavorful, usually within 40-60 days.
9. Dill plants can attract beneficial insects to the garden.

By following these simple instructions, kids can easily plant and care for dill, enjoying the relatively quick germination and the aromatic leaves that can be used in various culinary dishes and pickling recipes.

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14. Cosmos

Cosmos are delicate flowers with colorful petals that resemble daisies. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Kids will be enchanted by their whimsical appearance and the butterflies they attract to the garden.

Planting Instructions:

1. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
2. Sow cosmos seeds directly into the soil after the danger of frost has passed.
3. Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 12-18 inches apart.
4. Water gently after planting and keep the soil consistently moist until germination.
5. Cosmos seeds typically germinate within 7-21 days.
6. Once the plants are established, water them deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
7. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming.
8. Cosmos flowers come in various colors and add beauty to gardens and bouquets.
9. Cosmos plants can attract pollinators like butterflies and bees.

By following these simple instructions, kids can plant and care for cosmos flowers, enjoying the relatively quick germination and the vibrant and charming blooms that will adorn their garden and attract pollinators.

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15. Carrots

Carrots are root vegetables that can be grown in various shapes and colors. They prefer loose, well-drained soil. Kids will have fun discovering the different varieties and harvesting their own vibrant, crunchy carrots.

Planting Instructions:

1. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil that is free from rocks and debris.
2. Sow carrot seeds directly into the soil about 1/4 inch deep.
3. Space the seeds 1-2 inches apart in rows, with about 12-18 inches between rows.
4. Keep the soil consistently moist during germination and seedling growth.
5. Carrot seeds typically germinate within 10-14 days.
6. As the plants grow, thin them to ensure each carrot has enough space to develop. Thin to about 2-4 inches apart.
7. Water deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water.
8. Mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
9. Harvest carrots when they reach the desired size and color, usually around 60-80 days after planting.

By following these planting instructions, kids can enjoy planting and growing their own delicious and nutritious carrots. Germination typically occurs within 10-14 days, and with proper care, kids can look forward to a bountiful harvest of fresh, homegrown carrots.

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16. Snapdragons: Snapdragons are unique flowers with vibrant, tube-like blooms that resemble a dragon’s mouth. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Kids will enjoy playing with the snapdragon flowers, gently squeezing the sides to make them “snap” open.

17. Chives: Chives are slender, grass-like herbs with a mild onion flavor. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Kids will delight in the mild taste of chives and can use them to add flavor to their dishes.

18. Larkspur: Larkspur are tall, elegant flowers with spiky blooms that come in various shades of blue, purple, and white. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Kids will appreciate their graceful appearance and the way they sway in the breeze.

19. Lemon Balm: Lemon balm is a fragrant herb with bright green leaves that have a lemony scent. It prefers partial shade and well-drained soil. Kids will enjoy rubbing the leaves and inhaling the refreshing aroma, which can also be used in teas and recipes.

20. Cilantro: Cilantro is a pungent herb with delicate leaves that add a distinctive flavor to dishes. It prefers cooler temperatures and well-drained soil. Kids will enjoy growing their own cilantro and experimenting with its unique taste in various cuisines.

21. Bachelor’s Buttons: The bachelor button is a charming flower with fringed petals that come in shades of blue, pink, and white. These fast growing seeds prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Kids will be attracted to their delicate appearance and can use them in floral arrangements.

22. Borage: Borage is an herb with vibrant blue, star-shaped flowers. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Kids will love the striking blue flowers and can learn about their edible blossoms, which can be used to decorate salads or frozen into ice cubes.

23. Dwarf Sunflowers: Dwarf sunflowers are smaller versions of traditional sunflowers with vibrant yellow petals. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Kids will enjoy the sunny disposition of these flowers and can observe the bees and birds they attract.

24. Calendula: Calendula, also known as marigold, is a bright and cheerful flower with petals that range from yellow to orange. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Kids will appreciate their vibrant colors and can explore their uses in homemade skincare products or as natural dyes.

25. Sweet Alyssum: Sweet alyssum is a low-growing flower with clusters of tiny, fragrant blossoms. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Kids will be drawn to their delicate, honey-like scent and can witness how they attract beneficial insects to the garden.

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Tips for Gardening With Kids:

1. Start small: Begin with a small garden bed or even containers to make it more manageable and less overwhelming for kids. They can focus on a few plants and see their progress more easily.
2. Create a kid-friendly garden space: Designate a specific area of the garden just for the kids, with colorful signs, child-sized tools, and maybe even a small seating area or a little fairy garden. This will make them feel special and excited about their own gardening space.
3. Choose plants with sensory appeal: Include plants with interesting textures, colors, and scents. Think fuzzy lamb’s ear, vibrant sunflowers, or fragrant herbs like lavender or mint. Engaging multiple senses enhances the gardening experience.
4. Incorporate edible plants: Grow vegetables, fruits, and herbs that children can eat straight from the garden. This not only teaches them about food production but also encourages healthier eating habits.
5. Introduce companion planting: Teach kids about companion planting, where certain plants benefit each other when grown together. For example, planting marigolds with tomatoes helps deter pests. This can be a fun lesson in plant relationships and biodiversity.
6. Explore unusual plant varieties: Look for unique or heirloom plant varieties to cultivate curiosity and spark interest in lesser-known plants. Try purple carrots, striped tomatoes, or rainbow Swiss chard for a touch of excitement.
7. Encourage creativity: Allow kids to express their creativity in the garden by providing art materials like waterproof paints or colorful markers to decorate plant markers, stones, or even pots. This adds a personal touch to their gardening space.
8. Incorporate learning activities: Create opportunities for learning within the garden. Label plants with their botanical names, track growth progress in a journal, or measure and chart plant heights. This makes gardening an educational experience.
9. Make it a social activity: Encourage kids to garden with their friends or siblings. Group gardening activities promote teamwork, social skills, and can be a lot of fun.
10. Embrace the unexpected: Let go of perfection and embrace the unexpected outcomes in the garden. Sometimes, nature has its plans, and it can be a valuable lesson for kids to adapt and appreciate the beauty of imperfections.

By incorporating these tips, gardening with kids becomes a joyful and educational experience that nurtures their love for nature, creativity, and curiosity.

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These fast-growing seeds provide kids with a wonderful opportunity to start gardening for the first time, practice patience, and experience the joy of seeing their efforts yield visible results in a relatively short time. 

It’s a fun way to spend time together outdoors and stay connected with nature.

All you need are a few small pots, soil, seeds, a little water, a little effort, and a dash of patience. 

Happy gardening!

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