Pumpkins are great plants for kids to grow.
The seeds are large enough for little hands to sow, the leaves and flowers are showy, and the mature fruit is the ultimate Halloween decoration. The bonus is you can bake the flesh in pies and breads and roast the seeds for snacks. Adults like them, too, because they make great Thanksgiving table decorations as well as containers, when carved out, for fresh fall flowers. Mulch with black plastic to conserve moisture and help control weeds. Pumpkin plants tolerate short periods of hot, dry weather, but it s best to keep them well watered.