Growing crystals is something we seem to do all the time around here. It’s really 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 pine needles. Our crystal evergreens science experiment is perfect for a winter themed science lesson.

CRYSTAL EVERGREENS SCIENCE EXPERIMENT

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I am always amazed at the crystals we grow from a simple solution of borax powder and water. It’s a quick set up science experiment but you want to wait 24 hours for the best results. The results? tiny crystals covering the surface of your item. Pipe cleaners are an awesome choice.

CRYSTAL SNOWFLAKES

Our pipe cleaner crystal science projects make great ornaments too. Check out bot h our hearts and candy canes to see why! Plus the crystals grown on the pipe cleaners are very sturdy once they are completely dry!

CRYSTAL HEARTSWe have branched out from growing crystals on pipe cleaners to growing crystals on other objects like seashells, egg shells, and pumpkins. This season we decided to see what happens when we add pine needles to the crystal growing solution.

Our crystal evergreens science project is perfect for winter themed science experiments. We were pleased with the results, though these crystals are much more fragile. 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.

Make sure to grab a magnifying glass to check out your crystals up close. Our crystal evergreen science project turned out great.

GROWING CRYSTAL EVERGREENS SCIENCE SOLUTION RECIPE

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}

MAKE CRYSTAL GROWING SUSPENSION SOLUTION

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 tbl 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.

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!

Awesome winter science idea for kids! What will you grow crystals on this year?

COOL CRYSTAL EVERGREENS SCIENCE PROJECT

Click on the photos below for more awesome winter science ideas for kids.