How To Grow Pinto Beans As A Science Project

Pinto beans grow on a lush, green plant from seed planted in a garden. Pintos can be dried for soups and re-fried beans. A student can grow pinto beans for a science project to show the importance of the crop to South and North America. Be aware that most commercial bean seeds are packaged with fungicide. Request untreated seeds for a student to use for the project. The student can take photos to record each stage of the bean, from seed to planting on to emerging seedling and a maturing plant.

Step 1

Place enough clean stones to cover the bottom of a sterile plant pot or window box. This will be a source of drainage, which will protect the seeds from rot. Consider using a clear, sterile plastic storage container, which provides a view of the more mature plant's root system.

Step 2

Pour sterile seed starter soil or regular potting soil into the container. If using more than one container, try growing a set of seeds in compost as an experiment to show which plants thrive best.

Step 3

Poke a 2-inch-deep hole into the soil with a craft stick or your finger.

Step 4

Drop a pinto bean seed into the hole. Poke a few more holes 5 to 6 inches apart and drop seeds into them.

Step 5

Gently brush soil back into the hole over the bean with your finger. Lightly spray the top of the soil with water.

Step 6

Place the container in a warm room with a good source of daylight. A window space that has no cold air permeating the area is the best location for growing young plants from seed.