The kids are glum today because it's raining. They can't get out into the gardens to do any gardening. So what are you supposed to do on a rainy day? Here are a few things you can do for your gardens on a rainy day.
Collect rainwater
Rainwater is not only fun to collect but it can help reduce your water bill. You can collect rainwater to water your garden plants instead of using your hose. You just need a barrel or some other container to collect the water that comes off the roof of the house. A plastic garbage or trash pail will work perfectly. You can buy a screen mesh to place over the opening to prevent leaves and other debris from getting into the water. You can add a spigot onto the rain collector so you can attach a hose to water the lawn. If you use a trash can that has wheels, you'll have your own portable rainwater collector. There's always the bottle method too. Just leave some plastic soda pop bottles out with their lids off during a rain storm. Place them where they won't be blown down and collect the rainwater. It's that easy.
Garden crafts
A garden needs some decoration too. Garden crafts can be fun to make on a rainy day. Try making some garden signs, garden flags and garden banners. Garden signs can be made with wood or plastic. Be sure to use paint that will withstand the wrath of the weather in your area. You can make signs that label your garden. You can add your name to the garden using the garden signs, flags or banners. The garden flags can be made with any fabric that can withstand the weather patterns in your area. A strong material such as nylon will hold up against the most inclement weather.
You can also make a scarecrow. A scarecrow originally was made to keep critters out of the crops. Now it can be solely decorative. Either way, it is fun to make. Use the kids' old clothes to make the scarecrow. Use a milk jug or plastic bottle for the head and a garden stake or stick to hang the materials. Straw can usually be found at local greenhouses and farms.
Design your ideal gardemn
You can't garden on a rainy day, but you can design the ideal garden on paper or the computer. Get some drawing supplies together. Draw a layout of the yard. Make a list of the garden plants you would like to have.
Learn about the water cycle
Rain is part of the life cycle of a garden. Rain is also a part of the water cycle. Find out how rain is formed and check books or the Web for more information about the water cycle.
 | Dig in and get your hands dirty as you spend quality time with your children and teach them the art of growing, planting, and reaping the benefits of nature. |
 | Kids love to see things grow. But while children love to be out and about in nature, there are some pitfalls that can put a damper on their enthusiasm. |
 | Kids need breaks from chores, especially younger kids. Here are a few ideas for some garden fun that don't involve weeding, watering or harvesting. |
Dandelions are so much more than just your average weed. |
Go on a nature walk with your child and help him or her gather different types and colors of leaves. |
