Build a Rainforest

Materials

1. 2-liter bottles with bottle caps (one for each student)
2. Potting soil
3. Gravel/small rocks
4. Houseplants (such as philodendron)
5. Carpenter's knife
6. Clear packaging tape

Procedures

1. Remove wrapping from bottle. Clean inside and outside of the bottle.
2. Have an adult cut the bottle in half.
3. In the bottom half of the bottle put 1.5- to 2.0-inch layer of gravel.
4. Cover the gravel with 4 inches of potting soil.
5. Carefully place the plants in the soil.
6. Water plants.
7. Place top half of bottle on top of bottom half and tape securely.
8. Place terrarium in a sunny window.

Observations

Design an observation chart. Chart any changes in your plants. Give water in increments of a 1/2 cup. Keep track of the amount of water given.

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