Windowsill Mason Jar Herb Garden

This gardening project should be able to be completed within one hour.

It can be enhanced to add learning objectives.

This project can be used to teach about recycling, water conservation, plants, plant parts, similarities and differences between potting mix and gardening soil, plant growth, photosynthesis, herbs, cultivation, seasonings, teas, recipes, and baking. Students could also create a scientific journal and track the herbs growth rate. After establishing a baseline of growth for their herb plant, they could create a hypothesis and test and document the affects of changing the amount of water or sun. There are many potential topics that can be expanded upon with time and additional information. This is an instructable for a basic project.

Step 1: Gather Supplies

Supplies Needed:

1. Recycled jar
2. Rocks
3. Potting Mix
4. Teaspoon
5. Herb Plant
6. Water
7. Sunny Windowsill

* Nosey cat not necessary for project

Step 2: Prepare the Jar

1. Wash the jar
2. Dry the jar
3. Remove label

Step 3: Add 1" - 2" Rocks for Drainage

1. Can be bought or found
2. Rinse before using
3. Add one to two inches of rocks to jar

Step 4: Measure Potting Mix

1. Measure out enough potting mix, not garden soil, to cover roots

Step 5: Add Potting Mix on Top of Rocks

1. Add potting mix on top of rocks
2. Do not pack it in

Step 6: Remove Herb and Root From Package

1. Gently remove herb and root from container
2. Water can be used to loosen plant during removal

Step 7: Dig Hole in Center of Potting Mix

1. Dig a hole in the center of the potting mix inside the jar

Step 8: Gently Plant Herb Root in Center

1. Gently place the root in the center of the hole
2. Root should not touch sides of jar

Step 9: Add 1/4 Cup Water

1. Add 1/4 cup water on top of herb

Step 10: Place Herb Garden Jar in Windowsill

1. Place finished jar in sunny windowsill
2. Herb needs at least 4 hours of sun per day