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In this activity, learners use food scraps from the kitchen to grow new vegetables. Under the right conditions, vegetables from the fridge can start growing again thanks to the presence of special cells called meristematic cells. Activity includes step-by-step instructions for how to grow different vegetables, a video demonstration, an explanation of the science behind the activity, and suggested extensions.
- 5 to 10 minutes
- 1 to 4 weeks
- $1 - $5 per group of students
- Ages 6 - adult
- Activity
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per group of students)
- One or more of the following: Head of lettuce, bok choy, or celery (not just the individual leaves or stalks); scallions (aka green onions); root vegetables such as carrots, beets, turnips, or radishes, with their tops attached; leafy stems of basil or mint; whole potatoes
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Toothpicks
- Glasses or transparent plastic cups (so you can see through)
- Shallow bowls
- Magnifier (or zoom function on a cell phone camera)
- Sunny spot
- Optional: digital scale
Subjects
-
Life Sciences
- Cells
Informal Categories
- Food and Cooking
Other
Components that are part of this resource:
Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
Rights:
- Creative Commons: Non-commercial Share Alike (by-nc-sa), Exploratorium Teacher Institute, Exploratorium, 2021