How to Plant Seeds in Cups
A fun and educational project for children is to plant some vegetable seeds in paper cups and watch them sprout. Seeds that work well for this type of project are radish and green onion seeds. You can also experiment by choosing different types of seeds, and planting each kind in its own cup.
Choose a medium to large paper coffee cup, and punch drain holes in the bottom of the cup using a sharp object, like a nail.
Line the bottom of the cup with small rocks or pebbles.
Add potting soil to the cup, filling the cup three-quarters full.
Insert several seeds into the soil, pushing down about ¼ inch. The depth of the seeds and amount to plant in the cup will vary, depending on the type of seed used. Refer to the seed package for information.
Water thoroughly. Do not let the soil get soggy and muddy; the water should drain from the holes.
Cover the top of the cup with plastic wrap, creating a greenhouse effect. Use a marker to write the date and the type of seed planted on the outside of each cup.
Keep the cup in a warm place out of direct sunlight.
Writer Bio
Ann Johnson has been a freelance writer since 1995. She previously served as the editor of a community magazine in Southern California and was also an active real-estate agent, specializing in commercial and residential properties. She has a Bachelor of Arts in communications from California State University, Fullerton.