Jam jar jungle
Getting ready

Ask an adult to help you find or buy these things:
You will need:
jam jar with a metal lid
sharp knife
packet of alfalfa seeds
tablespoon
sieve or large tea strainer
small bowl
TAKE CARE – Some steps need adult help.
Ready to grow your jungle?
Step 1

Ask an adult to help you wash out your jam jar and lid over the kitchen sink.
Then ask them to make some slits in the lid with a sharp knife.
Now you have a seed germinator!
Step 2

Put a tablespoon of seeds into your sieve or tea strainer.
Rinse them under the tap by running cold water over them.
Step 3

Tip the wet seeds into your jam jar and cover them with cold water.
Leave them to soak for FOUR hours.
Step 4

Put the lid back on the jar and shake out the water over a sink.
Stand the jar in a bowl upside down and at an angle to drain off any last dribbles of water.
Step 5

Put the jar in a bright place and water the seeds twice a day, draining off the water like you did in step 5.
Give the jar an extra shake every now and then.
Step 7

After six days, you should have a fully grown jungle!
Pick some of your alfalfa sprouts and add them to a salad or sandwich.
Top Tip!

Instead of piercing a jam jar lid, you could use a piece of muslin cloth and attach this to the top of your jar with a rubber band. The water will drain out through the cloth.
Check out more fun activities.
- Download your own 'Jam jar jungle' instructions here (227.6 Kb)
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