Plant Pet Program
Sowing the Love of Plants in Classrooms Across Iowa
The Plant Pet Program (PPP)
Whether looking for a way to foster curiosity or excitement about the world of plants, we have a unique way for you to do so by :
- Incorporating plants into classrooms along with providing Next Generation Science Standard (NGSS) aligned lessons.
- Simultaneously offering teacher trainings and videos.
- Additionally creating field trip opportunities.
- Including equally important added value resources, and more!
A Little History
This Program launched in 2021 to provide STEAM education support for teachers conducting virtual learning during the pandemic. Not only was the Plant Pet Program strategically developed to connect schools with the Botanical Garden and plant science. But also to provide teachers with tools to engage students with the natural world in a meaningful way. To that end, Plant Pet Kits have been distributed to 200 classrooms, reaching 7,348 students.
Ready to Go & Ready to Grow
In other words, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden Plant Pet Program provides lessons that are “ready to go” & a classroom pet “ready to grow”. Equally important is that it’s turnkey for your class.
The Plant Pet program has lessons and kits specifically designed for K-5, Middle School Science, and ‘other’ classrooms (e.g.: music or art).
Plant Pet Kits include:
Potted Plant Pet & care card
Grow light & watering can
A grade-specific NGSS aligned lesson plan & quick tutorial video
Corresponding lesson materials, worksheets & digital copies
Field trip opportunities, teacher training days, and more!
Plant Pet Kit Availability
Because Plant Pet Kits are distributed throughout the year, they typically align with the fall and spring. Subsequently, requests are filled on a first come first served basis, while supplies last.
Since quantities of Plant Pet Kits dependent on program funding, schools with a higher percentage of Free and Reduced Lunch are prioritized. At any rate, see below for the current availability, and how to request a kit or be added to the waitlist for the next batch of distribution.
Spring 2026 Availability
Plant Pet kits are FREE to your classroom on a first come first served basis, while funds last, through the generosity of John Deere and other supporting sponsors.
ANY Teacher: Request a spring Plant Pet Kit – early March pick up.
Purchase a Plant Pet Kit
Another key point: you don’t haveto wait! If you purchase a Plant Pet Kit anytime, yu will then receive your kit within 3 weeks. You have the option to buy a Plant Pet Kit for you, your child’s classroom, or your favorite teacher!
Plant Pet Kits can be purchased for $100.
