Let kids grow 'no-fail' winter garden

Beat the long, dark days of February with some easy-growing winter pick-me-ups you and the kids will enjoy. The best part? They're "no-fail," so all the family will be touting their green thumbs!

Bulbs and buckets

Purchase a small paper bag full of paperwhite bulbs, often on sale this time of year at garden centers. Let your kids find whimsical and colorful waterproof containers from their toy collection to substitute as flowerpots, such as a small bucket or a square-shaped stacking toy. It should be about the size of a 4-inch pot. For each bulb, fill a container two-thirds full with small, clean pebbles. Nestle a bulb in the center of the pebbles, with the tip pointing upward. Fill a pitcher with water and let your child carefully pour the water into the container until it reaches the base of the bulb. Set them all around the house to perk up windowsills, a bathroom counter and end tables. Add water regularly as these fast-growing plants bloom and cast their spring aroma throughout your house.

Lush indoor lawn

Plant your own containers of green grass that will sprout and grow in just a few days.

Stop by a health-food store and look for winter-wheat seeds, which are usually sold in bulk. Let your child help scoop and weigh your purchase. Or, use standard rye-grass seed. You won't need more than a half pound for several pots. Scoop some potting soil into a flowerpot, pie tin, empty tin cans with labels removed or other attractive containers of your choice. Sprinkle the wheat over the surface of the soil. Lightly spritz with water until it is damp. Cover loosely with plastic wrap to retain moisture and place in indirect sunlight until seeds germinate (about three or four days). Remove plastic wrap and place in a sunny spot. Water daily and enjoy for two to three weeks. Repot for a continuous grass garden through St. Patrick's Day. Plant another crop in a plastic-lined Easter basket for a lush, eye- catching centerpiece at your table.

Write Donna with your questions and ideas at www.donnasday.com. Donna's latest book, "Donna Erickson's Fabulous Funstuff for Families," is available in bookstores nationwide. ? Donna Erickson Dist. by King Features Syndicate

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