| Okay, real talk — Michigan springs are basically a mystery box. Some years we get warm, golden days that make you want to live outside forever. Other years? A cold, gray slog that just won’t quit.
But here’s the thing: there’s a whole crew of flowers that actually THRIVE on that unpredictability. And there’s a whole crew of little people who will absolutely love helping you grow them. 🌱
Welcome to the world of cool-season annuals! 🌼
Pansies. Snapdragons. Calendula. These beauties don’t just survive cold nights and crisp spring days — they love them. And honestly? Kids love this stuff too. There is something so magical about watching a child’s face light up when they push a tiny seed into the soil and realize THEY are making something grow. |
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| So how do we get started when the ground is still frozen? Two words: winter seed sowing.
This technique is SO cool (pun intended), requires zero fancy equipment, and is genuinely one of the best rainy afternoon activities you can do with your kids right now. Oh — and you get to recycle while you’re at it.
I learned these steps from the amazing Michelle of Long River Family Farm, and I’m so excited to share them with you:
1. Cut an empty plastic gallon jug in half — but keep the handle side attached so it acts like a hinge! (This is a grown-up job, but let the little ones watch the magic happen!) |
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| 2. ⚠️ VERY important: poke drainage holes in the bottom of the jug. Don’t skip this! Little helpers can count the holes as you go. 😄
3. Fill the bottom half with potting soil and water it well. Kids LOVE this part — let them scoop the soil and give it a good drink!
4. Sow your seeds into the soil, following the depth and spacing directions on the seed packet. This is a great moment to talk to your kids about how tiny seeds turn into beautiful flowers! |
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| 5. Tape the jug back together with heavy-duty tape. Let your little one be the official tape holder!
6. Leave the lid OFF for ventilation and watering.
7. Set your jug(s) OUTSIDE in a well-lit but protected spot — the southwest corner of your house is the sweet spot! |
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| 8. Check in once a week and water through the top hole if needed. Make this your child’s special job — a fun flower responsibility, so they can remind YOU when it’s time to check on the seeds. 🌿
That’s it! Mother Nature does the heavy lifting from here. The seeds will sprout when they get all the right cues from outdoor temperature and lighting.
And when the ground thaws in April, you and your little gardeners will have strong, healthy sprouts ready to go right into the garden. 🌱
Imagine cutting a bouquet of flowers with your kid that they grew themselves! That’s the goal. And it starts TODAY.
Want to see it in action? Check out this video that walks you through the whole process.
Big news for our Grow Club garden — we have a fresh planting plan for 2026, and yes, it includes winter-sown seeds! 🎉
But before we dive in… our garden needs a NAME. I want YOUR ideas — and hey, ask your kids too! Some of the best garden names come from the littlest imaginations. Hit reply and send me your favorites!
With dirt under my fingernails too, |
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Caroline Thomet 🌷
Koetsier’s Greenhouse
Director of Learning Experiences
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P.S. If this whole cut-flower garden concept has you buzzing, you are going to LOVE this: Melinda and Michelle are hosting a cut flower class at @Koetsier’s in April!
It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn from two incredibly talented gardeners — and a great excuse for a little grown-up time while the kids are napping. 😉
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