Crystal Wonderland Science Project

Growing crystals is something we seem to do for different holidays and seasons. It’s pretty easy and a great science lesson too! We have tested some interesting items to grow crystals on like seashells and pumpkins. Now we have added evergreen pine needles perfect for a winter science experiment.

EVERGREEN CRYSTALS FOR WINTER SCIENCE

GROWING CRYSTALS

I am always amazed at the crystals we grow from a simple solution of borax powder and water. It’s a quick set up experiment but you do need to wait 24 hours for the best results. The results? Tiny crystal icicles covering the surface of your item. Usually, we use pipe cleaners but for our winter theme we have used pine needles.

Our crystal evergreen science project is perfect for winter theme activities. We were pleased with the results, though these crystals are much more fragile than our crystals made with pipe cleaners. My son thought it looked like icy snow on a tree.

Ready to grow crystals of your own? The recipe is simple to make, but should be done by adults or with close adult supervision.

Check out these fun variations for growing crystals…

Our pipe cleaner crystals are actually sturdy enough to put on display or use as hanging ornaments.

science experiments for kids; experiments for kids — Crystal Candy Canes

Click here to get your FREE printable winter activities

GROWING EVERGREEN CRYSTALS

SUPPLIES

Evergreen Branch {test different types of evergreens if you can!}
Borax Powder
Water
Bowl, Measuring Cup, and Spoon
Mason Jar or Tall Glass {not plastic}

HOW TO MAKE YOUR CRYSTAL GROWING SOLUTION

STEP 1. Boil 1 cup of water for every 3 tablespoons of borax powder. Measure borax powder into a boil. Once the water is boiled, turn the heat off and measure the water into the bowl with the borax powder. Stir to mix well. We usually mix up 3 cups of water and 9 tablespoons of powder.

The powder will not dissolve. You are making a suspension solution meaning the particles of the powder are suspended in the water due to the heat. As the mixture cools, the particles settle onto the item that is placed in the mixture.

Use up your borax powder with an awesome borax slime recipe or to make your own bouncy balls!

STEP 2. We used clothespins to prop up the evergreen branch so that it did not smush into the bottom. Pour your solution into the glass or jar. Place your jar or glass in a location where it won’t be disturbed.

You can see above the solution is so thick you can’t see the branch through the liquid. Below, you can see how the crystals are forming and the solution is settling. You can see the branch better.

You will be able to check out and observe the crystals growing in the glass before long, but I like to let it sit for 24 hours. Slowly remove the branch from the glass. Ours stuck quite a bit but we slowly wiggled the branch to dislodge it. Pretty neat science!