With the string of mighty fine, summer-reminding days we've been enjoying this month, many of us have turned our attention to the great out-of-doors, contemplating growing everything from flowers and veggies to taste-enhancing herbs in the months ahead.
And even if you're not a gardener at heart, you can still get out there and cultivate a plant or two.
It as easy as one, two, three-and the perfect way to honor Earth Day.
Meanwhile, a number of school districts across the country have already heeded the Environmental Protection Agency's call to "grow your own" by establishing student-/faculty-tended gardens at their various schools.
As students help work the land alongside their teachers, they learn about science, health, nutrition and how things grow.
You and your child can do it, too.
No experience or backyard required.
All that's necessary is a sunny stoop, balcony, porch, or deck, along with...
• An empty egg carton • Potting soil • Large plastic bags • Seeds (flower or bush veggie varieties) • Plastic wrap • Water and a fork Then just: 1.
Remove the top half of the egg carton.
2.
Fill each egg carton cup with soil.
3.
Gently press one seed in each cup.
4.
Cover each seed with a bit of soil.
5.
Sprinkle each filled cup with a little water.
6.
Cover with plastic wrap.
7.
Place in a sunny window, keeping the soil moist.
8.
Once the seedlings sprout, remove the plastic wrap, water occasionally, and watch them grow.
9.
Then, when frost is no longer a danger, head outside and fill the plastic bags with soil.
10.
Scoop out a hole in the soil of each bag and gently insert a seedling; then cover its roots with soil.
11.
Poke a few holes in the sides and bottom of the bags to ensure drainage.
12.
Moisten the soil with water.
After that, it's just a matter of keeping the plants watered, as you and your child gather flowers and produce all summer long-no weeding required.
As they say, it's in the bag.