You have old nylons. You have grass seed. But have you ever tried putting them together? Learn how plants grow as you create a super silly critter from an old nylon, some potting soil, and a little bit of grass seed. Your child will be amazed with the result!
What do you need to make a growing porcupine that will bring you back to the days of the Chia Pet?
You need an old nylon stocking, preferably a knee-high stocking or one cut off at the knee. You’ll need potting soil and some grass seed and a spray bottle to keep the grass moist. You’ll also need a plate for your creature, so it doesn’t spill water or soil onto the counter. If you’d like to decorate your porcupine, you can also get buttons and thread, crazy glue and googly eyes, felt, or other decorative items that you find around the house. Just make sure that they’re waterproof!
To make your porcupine, put soil inside the nylon stocking, then place grass seed at the top of the soil. Press the stocking gently to mix the seed below the surface of the soil. Tie a knot at the top end of the stocking, then decorate the porcupine if you wish. After the decorations dry, wet the porcupine regularly with a spray bottle.
Grass grows quickly, and soon your porcupine will have grass growing up through the tiny holes in the nylon stocking. When the grass gets high and starts to bend over, trim it off and it will grow again!
This is a great spring craft for preschool and young elementary aged children. It’s a good starting point for discussions about what helps plants grow. As children take care of their growing plant, they’ll realize the importance of good soil, water, and light to a plant’s health.
Image Credit: Stock Exchange