Seed Necklace Experiment

Germination is the first stage of plant growth, where the seed sprouts through the seed coat. For this to happen, seeds need certain conditions met. They need water, air (oxygen), and the right temperature. For farmers planting seeds in their field, the right soil temperature depends on the type of crop. For example, canola can germinate at 2ºC, while soybeans need at least 10ºC. 

This is why some crops cannot be grown in Alberta, as they need warmer temperatures and a wetter climate. For instance, sugar cane can only grow in warm countries near the equator with an average temperature of 24ºC. Countries like Canada plant sugar beets instead, as sugar beets are a root vegetable that germinate better in the summers of colder climates.

Try this germination science experiment!

Materials:

• Cotton ball

• Spray bottle full of water

• Seed (dry beans, corn, soybeans, or oats work well)

• Resealable plastic bag (jewellery sized)

• Single hole punch

• String

Procedure:

1. With your finger, press a little indent into the cotton ball.

2. Spray the indent with water three times.

3. Place the seed in the indent. Do not scrunch up the cotton ball.

4. Put the cotton ball inside the plastic bag.

5. Hole punch the corner of the bag and thread the string through.

6. Tie the ends of the string together to make a necklace.

7. Put the necklace on and tuck it under your shirt. Wear it all day. 

   
   

Reflect: What happened to your seed by the end of the day?

Check out our Seed Discovery activity booklet for more seed fun!

https://www.flipsnack.com/6CFCB899E8C/seed-discovery-xuigffihp8/full-view.html