THIS time of year sees many of us getting grubby in the garden as we fertilise the roses and rid the lawn of weeds, but being in the yard shouldn’t just involve work.
Dirtgirl, the adorable nature-loving singer from ABC TV, reminds us to play games, explore and partake in everyday things such as eating, reading, art and singing outside with the family.
She also suggests starting a vegie plot or potted area with kids this season, choosing produce they love to eat.
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“If you’re not big on cucumbers but love tomatoes, then tomatoes are the way to go – I love eating snow peas straight off the vine so they’re high on my to-sow list for spring,” dirtgirl said.
“Start small, get used to caring and growing, and harvest and eat what you grow – even a salad garden is a great place to start.
“And when you’re outside, switch on your senses: looking is great, but we have four other amazing senses to explore our world with.”
The gumboot-wearing youngster and Emmy Award winner has connected with families for more than a decade, inspiring them to experience nature and sustainability in everyday life.
She continually reminds herself that little things make a big difference.
“For me, it’s all about making small changes – like always carrying my water bottle or saving my bathwater for the garden – and sticking to them so that I am creating a new habit for the planet,” dirtgirl said.
“A few years ago, I started a wish list of plant promises and I tick them off as they become everyday behaviours.
“Doing things that show care for the planet fill me with hope for the future.”
Dirtgirl and her all-female band Mother Earth will perform songs from Get Grubby TV and dirtgirlworld next month at the inaugural Gourmet Feast in the Valley.
Fellow TV friends Scrapboy and Costa the Garden Gnome won’t be attending – they’ll be back in dirtgirlworld, caring for the garden beds and chickens.
Gourmet Feast in the Valley is part of the WA Gourmet Escape food and wine festival, running from November 8 to 17.
THE ESSENTIALS
What: Gourmet Feast in the Valley
Where: Sandalford Estate, Caversham
When: November 9
Tickets: gourmetescape.com.au