How to Grow Pinto Beans As a Science Project
Pinto beans grow on a lush, green plant from seed planted in a garden. Pintos can be dried for soups and re-fried beans. A student can grow pinto beans for a science project to show the importance of the crop to South and North America. Be aware that most commercial bean seeds are packaged with fungicide. Request untreated seeds for a student to use for the project. The student can take photos to record each stage of the bean, from seed to planting on to emerging seedling and a maturing plant.
Place enough clean stones to cover the bottom of a sterile plant pot or window box. This will be a source of drainage, which will protect the seeds from rot. Consider using a clear, sterile plastic storage container, which provides a view of the more mature plant's root system.
- Pinto beans grow on a lush, green plant from seed planted in a garden.
- A student can grow pinto beans for a science project to show the importance of the crop to South and North America.
Pour sterile seed starter soil or regular potting soil into the container. If using more than one container, try growing a set of seeds in compost as an experiment to show which plants thrive best.
Poke a 2-inch-deep hole into the soil with a craft stick or your finger.
Drop a pinto bean seed into the hole. Poke a few more holes 5 to 6 inches apart and drop seeds into them.
Gently brush soil back into the hole over the bean with your finger. Lightly spray the top of the soil with water.
- Pour sterile seed starter soil or regular potting soil into the container.
- Gently brush soil back into the hole over the bean with your finger.
Place the container in a warm room with a good source of daylight. A window space that has no cold air permeating the area is the best location for growing young plants from seed.
Tip
Cover the top of the container with a sheet of plastic wrap to provide a greenhouse effect. Leave the plastic in place until the bean sprout breaks through the soil.
Warning
Do not over-water the soil or the bean seeds will rot.
References
Resources
Tips
- Cover the top of the container with a sheet of plastic wrap to provide a greenhouse effect. Leave the plastic in place until the bean sprout breaks through the soil.
Warnings
- Do not over-water the soil or the bean seeds will rot.
Writer Bio
Suzie Faloon is a freelance writer who has written online content for various websites. As a professional crafter and floral designer, Faloon owned a florist business for nearly 25 years. She completed the Institute of Children's Literature course in 1988.