Mini veggies for mini gardeners

Getting started

What you’ll need:

• Pots that are at least 30cm deep and around 40cm wide, with drainage holes. You can also grow tomatoes in a hanging basket!

• High-quality potting mix.

• Cherry tomato and mini cucumber seedlings - these are easier for beginners, than growing from seeds (and you’ll get to enjoy the results of your efforts a bit faster).

• Watering can or spray bottle for gentle watering.

• A balanced, slow-release fertiliser.

Growing cherry tomatoes

1. ​​​​Choose a sunny spot as your tomato plants will need at least 6 hours of sunlight a day. They also need to be in a sheltered spot, away from strong winds.

2. ​​Plant your seedlings: Fill your pot with potting mix, leaving about 5cm at the top. Make a small hole, place the seedling inside, and cover it gently with soil.

3. Water regularly: Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Watering in the morning is best.

4. Support your plants: As they grow, cherry tomatoes need support - use small stakes or tomato cages.

5. Fertilise: Follow the instructions on your fertiliser for how often to feed your plants.

6. Watch for pests: Check the leaves regularly for pests and remove any you find by hand.

Growing mini cucumbers

1. Just like tomatoes, cucumbers need lots of sunlight so choose a sunny spot.

2. Plant your cucumber seedlings in pots filled with potting mix. Make sure to leave space for them to grow.

3. Cucumbers need a bit of room to spread out, so adding some support such as stakes or a small trellis will keep them ventilated. 

4. Keep the soil consistently moist. Cucumbers need more water than tomatoes, so check them regularly.

5. Apply an all-purpose fertiliser when flowers first appear, following instructions on the packaging.

6. Keep an eye out for pests and remove them by hand if necessary.

Fun activities to do with your plants

• Measuring growth: Keep a garden journal where kids can measure and record the growth of their plants.

• Let the kids paint and decorate their pots for a personal touch.

• When your veggies are ready, celebrate with a little harvest party and enjoy the fruits (or veggies) of your labour!

Tips for success

• Plants take time to grow. Patience is key!

• Regular watering and care will ensure healthy plants.

• Have fun! Gardening should be enjoyable, so don't stress if things don't go perfect.

• ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​You can also grow your produce from seeds - just follow the instructions on the seed packet. Bear in mind that a little more patience will be required as this will take a little longer!