Sharon Lovejoy, author of Sunflower Houses (Contemporary Books, 1991), shares ideas on garden gifts for children to give.
A $1 packet of gourd seeds will produce a bountiful harvest in 120 to 190 days. Plant them in full sun in a rich, fast-draining soil. When it's time to harvest, cut some stem with each gourd so you can hang them to dry. Gourds should be stored in a cool, dry, airy place. If the gourd rattles when shaken, it's ready to be used for garden projects. Once gourds are dry, protect and preserve them with a coating of paste wax, lacquer or shellac.
Walnut halves also make wonderful boats, ornaments that look like miniature birdhouses, baskets and doll heads.
Making Garlands
To make your own garland, collect orange and apple slices, cinnamon sticks, bay leaves, pinecones and other materials. Thread a heavy needle with dental floss or fishing line, and begin stringing the materials. To string nuts or hard objects, use a Dremel tool or a drill with a fine bit to drill tiny holes. This project is best suited to older children, but younger kids can help collect the goodies. Once your garland is as long as you like, tie a knot in the end, and dress up the finished ends with a bit of raffia or ribbon tied in a bow.
RESOURCES :
Sunflower Houses
Model: 0761123865
Author: Sharon Lovejoy
2001
Workman Publishing Co. Inc.
New York, NY 10003-9555
Phone: 212-254-5900
Fax: 212-254-8098
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