In my experience, teenagers and gardening are an unlikely mix. Gardening probably rates as supremely uncool. In fact, I believe it would not even register on their radar because it doesn’t involve a screen or earplugs. But, putting aside any thought of them actually working in the garden, there are other ways to at least encourage them outside.

Here are a few suggestions to get teens off the computer or PlayStation, out into the fresh air – and out of your hair!

Toys
Don’t get rid of the trampoline or swing too soon. Although they pretend to be grown up, teenagers love to release energy on a tramp or hang about on a swing – especially if there’s another teen around to share the fun. Other good things to hold on to include swing ball sets and volleyball and badminton nets. If they tell you they’re bored ... don’t have a bar of it!

Artwork
Channel teenagers with a creative bent into an outdoor art project. A large mosaic (pictured) is easy to create. Other projects include using ready-set concrete to create garden sculpture, hypertufa (artificial stone) to make a Pacifica-style water bowl or painting a design onto ripple iron (Zincalume) with UV-resistant paints. Put their finished artwork in the special “teen” area you’ve sectioned off with screening to give them a sense of ownership and pride.

Whimsy
Adding coloured lights or bizarre plants (such as red cabbages!) to a teenager’s garden space introduces a touch of whimsy that most teenagers will appreciate. Give them a bit of scope to add their own original touches too – it’s all about creating a space they will appreciate and feel comfortable in.

Contemplation
Since time began, water has had mesmeric qualities. The serenity of a small reflection pond in a quiet corner of the garden, complete with bench seat and scatter cushions, may be spoiling a teenager just a little – but it can always be used by you when they’re not around!

Karma
One of my 15-year-old’s favourite catchphrases is “what comes around goes around” and, if good brings good, then planting a garden is terrific karma. And, as gardening is widely used as therapy, allowing an unhappy teenager to select their own plants, draw a plan and plant their own garden would be great therapy and karma. Even if they don’t believe in karma (or therapy), at least they’ll learn a thing or two about gardening! Simplicity A simple seating area – raw and uncluttered – may also suit teenagers with troubled minds. Having a place to sit and relax, mull over their inner thoughts and breathe in fresh air is great therapy to release pressure. Create this space in a quiet backwater of the garden where they won’t be disturbed.

Seating
“Teenager” is synonymous with “lounging about”. On fine days, it’s better they lounge about outside! Outdoor bean bags and hammocks provide the perfect solution. Pictured are Coast New Zealand outdoor bean bags. You can buy new bean bags on the web or look for second-hand ones in newspapers and on TradeMe. Or you might consider getting a pattern and making your own.

Screening
Erecting an instant screen to create a sectioned off area should excite any teenager who wants their own space. Check out the large range of ready-made screening options available in garden centres and hardware stores or from specialist retailers such as Brustics.