We currently have two gardens at our school. I would be interested in starting a rice paddy with some of our students. I'm sure this would be a great learning experience for them.

I just want to second the recommendation for the Japanese Garden in Van Nuys. The field trips are well done; the docents show the kids the bonsai garden, the main garden, which includes a Zen rock garden, a replica tea house, and also the water treatment center. Along the way, they explain the significance of different flowers, animals, etc. If possible, you should try to go when the cherry blossoms are blooming.

http://thejapanesegarden.com/