Worms and holes and meat-eating plants

When I was a kid, all I knew about gardening was raking leaves, pulling weeds and Clipping the Edges. Really cool stuff like having the compost heap catch fire was rare. Nowadays, adults have lots more ways to engage young minds in gardening, like bug-eating plants, blacksmithing and attracting hummingbirds. A Master Gardener recommended controlling pesky gnats and fruit flies in the kitchen with a carnivorous plant. Mr. Spider, you can be replaced! I’ve seen carnivorous plants around, like at Green Gate Nursery, so add one to your treasure hunt list.

Good thing it’s never too late to have a happy childhood!

On Le Tour des Plants, check out the following kid-friendly activities:

• Tour an apple orchard, pick apples and enjoy a hay ride at French Prairie Garden
  
• Decorate zucchinis and enter the zucchini fashion contest at Shonnard’s
  
• Also at Shonnard’s, learn about starting a worm bin
  
• Treasure Hunt and Perennial Toss at Egan Gardens, and the hypertufa class for older kids
  
• See plants from around the world at Sebright Gardens
  
• Blacksmith demonstration, storytelling and more at Fresh to You Produce and Garden Center
  
• Take a guided tour of the Children’s Garden at The Oregon Garden

Visit www.LeTourDesPlants.com for the schedules and maps.