Getting Children Green

Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-502 -- More Projects »
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Growing plants can be exciting with this Root Viewer Box (See instructions below).
Environmental expert Michael Fritzen presents projects designed to teach children about plants by helping with the garden.

Root Viewer Box

Materials:

milk carton
craft knife
transparent sheet (available at office-supply stores)
glue gun
stapler
potting soil
seeds (such as corn, lima beans or peas)

Steps:


  1. With a craft knife, cut out two panels of the milk carton--one will be to watch the roots grow and the other will be to put the dirt in.

  2. Measure a transparency against the entire side panel and cut to size.
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Figure A
  • Glue the transparency to the inside of the box, making sure there are no open seams (figure A).

  • Add potting soil and seeds. Be sure to leave some drainage holes on the carton bottom or the seeds may get moldy.

  • Encourage the child to keep a chart of where the seeds are planted and how long it takes each one to sprout. Results can come as early as six to seven days. Children should feel free to decorate the carton exterior as well, but they should not paint inside the box).
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    Root-Viewing Project
    Root-Viewing Project

    Materials:

    glass cup
    paper towel
    potting soil
    seeds (lima beans are great for this)

    Steps:


    1. Line the inside of a glass with the paper towel, then fill with potting soil.

    2. Fold the paper towel in to seal it, then place a seed between the paper towel and glass.

    3. Fill the glass with water and look for results in around five days.

    4. An egg carton filled with dirt is also a great vehicle for sprouting seeds and can be decorated as well.

    Also in this Episode
    Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-502
    •Getting Children Green
    •Buying an Adult Bicycle
    •Decoupage Under Glass
    •Smart Solution of the Day