Growing a Crystal Garden

It’s time again to take out the science activities and get working with the girlsJ  This one is growing crystals with materials you will have around the house.  The only thing you may need to purchase is bluing, typically available in the laundry aisle of your local store.
 
Materials:

• Pie pan
• Charcoal
• Salt
• Water
• Bluing
• Ammonia
• Food coloring

 
Directions:

1. Put a piece of charcoal in the pie pan.
2. Mix together the following ingredients in a small bowl or cup and pour mixture over charcoal.
   1. 1 T. salt
   2. 1 T. water
   3. 1 T. bluing
   4. 1 t. ammonia
3. Add a few drops of food coloring on top of the charcoal.
4. Set the crystal garden in a safe place and watch it grow.

 
Questions to ask:

• How long did it take for your crystals to grow?
• What happens when you touch them?

 
Extension:
Color a picture on black or blue construction paper with crayons.  Mix Epsom salt with a little water (1/2 c. Epsom salt and ¼ c. water).  Paint over your picture with the solution, then watch crystals appear.