School Gardens

Inspiring new generations

Elderberry Farms Garden. Credit Jim Wadsworth.

Kids are naturally curious

The California Native Plant Society promotes the inclusion of native plants in every school garden. Native plants help students learn the vital connection between plants and higher forms of life. Plants are at the bottom of the food chain, and native plants are a primary component of healthy ecosystems. Just as edible plants are important for human health and survival, native plants are equally necessary to other forms of life. Native plants help pollinator populations survive and thrive, which in turn help pollinate edible crops. – Arvind Kumar

School gardens provide a space for kids to go outside, take a deep breath, and observe the natural world.
– Karen Taylor

Many Garden Ambassadors have started school gardens – learn more!

Credit Dennis Mudd.
Credit Dennis Mudd.
Lizard's tail, seaside daisy, monkey flower. Credit Veronica Bowers.
Lizard’s tail, seaside daisy, monkey flower. Credit Veronica Bowers.
Credit Kathy Kramer.
Credit Kathy Kramer.

Teachers are starting to understand and parents are starting to learn. We are showing the kids that there is value in appreciating the natural world; it is there for all of us to explore!
– Karen Taylor

Popular topics

Resources for parents and teachers

Native plant activities for kids

Try these fun, native plant activities for kids, and get ideas for curriculum.

Elderberry Farms Garden. Credit Jim Wadsworth.
Elderberry Farms Garden. Credit Jim Wadsworth.

Ideas for a school garden

Get ideas to create a garden that fits your school’s needs.

Variable checkerspot. Credit Stephen Rosenthal.
Variable checkerspot. Credit Stephen Rosenthal.

Garden guides

These comprehensive guides will help you start a school or urban garden.

“Natives Live Here” sign

Make sure to get a sign for your school garden to show others the beauty of our California native plants!

CNPS Store

Join the movement

If you give it time, people will realize the value of it for themselves, their kids, and their communities.
– Karen Taylor