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Grow Something Weird
Grow Something Weird - Purple Carrots, Rainbow Tomatoes & More
TWEENS (11 - 14 YEARS)
6/28/20262 min read
Forget ordinary seeds - this activity is about growing things that make people do a double take. Purple carrots. Rainbow tomatoes. Moonflowers that only open at night. Crystal growing kits that produce results that look like something from another planet. A butterfly garden that brings your backyard to life.
Growing something weird is one of the most quietly magical things you can do with a tween - and the patience it teaches is invaluable.
Why This Works For Tweens
Tweens often feel like they've "done" gardening - but growing something unusual reignites that sense of wonder and curiosity. It also teaches patience, observation and responsibility in the most hands-on way possible. And there's nothing quite like the moment the first purple carrot is pulled from the earth.
Activity Details
Age Group: Tweens 11–14
Time: 30 minutes to set up + ongoing care
Difficulty: Easy
What You Need
Unusual seeds of choice: purple carrots, rainbow tomatoes, moonflowers, dragon fruit, black roses
Optional: crystal growing kit, butterfly garden kit
Steps
Choose your weird and wonderful growing project together - look at options online and let your tween decide.
Fill pots or garden beds with seed raising mix.
Plant seeds according to packet instructions, noting depth and spacing.
Water gently and place in the recommended position - sun or shade as needed.
Label each pot clearly with the plant name and date planted.
Create a simple growing journal to record observations - height, changes, first flowers.
Water regularly and watch in wonder as something extraordinary grows.
Kim's Tips 💕
A crystal growing kit produces stunning results in just a few days - perfect for impatient tweens!
Moonflowers are magical - plant near a window and watch them open after dark
Take weekly photos from the same angle to create a beautiful time-lapse of growth
Find unusual seed collections and growing kits on my Amazon storefront!
Find everything you need for this activity on my Amazon storefront.
This post is part of my Tweens Activity Hub - packed with ideas for 11–14 year olds.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
With love, Kim xx