Bringing the outdoors in can be magical, but it can also help children learn. If you want to add plants to your classroom but are unsure where to start, we are here to help. I share five plants I have grown in my classrooms over the years!
But why, you may wonder, why would I go to the trouble and expense of having plants? Well, five quick reasons are
- They make a nicer classroom environment
- Many can help clean the air
- They help children learn about responsibility; watering can be a class job
- Research has shown that having plants in a classroom can Improve concentration, Aid memory retention, Reduce stress levels and Increase energy levels
- They are great for teaching science in a natural, everyday way
Spider Plants
This is an excellent plant as it thrives on neglect and is very easy to grow. They like indirect sunlight, so they are not dependent on being near a window. They also look fab!
- Light: Bright, indirect sunlight
- Water: Once a week. Allow the soil to dry out before watering again.
Aloe
Aloe is a hardy plant, helpful if your kids have yet to learn to be gentle with plants. It is easily recognisable, and many varieties are cheap and picked up easily in supermarkets and garden centres; I even have one from Ikea.
- Light: Keep in bright, direct sunlight.
- Water: Heavily, but only once every two weeks.
Cacti
As a wee girl, I loved visiting my gran’s house and seeing her ever growing collection of cacti. They fascinated me. From the tall cacti with long spikes to the wee round ones that looked almost furry. Though I also remember the day my brother accidentally knocked one over and then had to spend the next hour having the spikes removed from his hand – so if you have a younger class, you may want to keep them out of reach!
- Light: Bright, direct sunlight
- Water: Once a week. Allow the soil to dry out before watering again, and beware of sogginess.
Jade Plant
The dark green thick leaves of this plant are easily recognisable. Like the others, it is easy to look after and can be found in many shops. A small one is low cost, and it grows well.
- Light: Bright, indirect sunlight
- Water: Once a week. Don’t allow the soil to dry out completely before watering.
Lettuce
Yup, the last on my list is a wild card! The humble lettuce. This can be grown indoors all year round. A south-facing window is ideal for the most growth and is handy away from the heaters. You want cut and come again varieties – as they can add to your lunch! Baby Oakleaf, Tom Thumb and Black-Seeded Simpson. Some varieties grow well in winter light, such as Arctic King, Winter Marvel and Winter Density. After about four weeks, the leaves should be 3-4 inches tall and ready for harvest. Only take what you need from the outside, and it will keep growing!
- Light: Bright, direct sunlight
- Water: keep the soil moist but beware of sogginess.
We hope this inspires you to bring some greenery into your classroom! Please do share with us what you grow and how you find the process.
