Botany Abstracts
Judges, please do NOT pre-judge these abstracts. They should only be used to gain a better
understanding of the projects you will see on State Science Day.
SYST—Plant Systematics and Evolution
Bethany Grace Cox
Can the Aquaponic Process with Biochar be Used to Grow Soybeans in Sand?
BOT
MORP
Sandy surface soils have low soil fertility, shallow root depth and erosion. There is concern about
feeding a growing population using organics instead of man-made fertilizers.
Aquaponics is an organic solution. Biochar, an organic compound, along with aquaponics benefits the
soil. The combination can reduce need for man-made fertilizers. If aquaponics with biochar is used to
grow soybeans in sand, then they will grow as well as those grown in aquaponics with biochar and soil.
For this project, soybeans were soaked to begin germination. Four groups had ten pots each. Each pot
had one seed. Control group contained 20% biochar and 80% potting soil. Sand group contained biochar
and sand. Two aquaponic groups were lined with clay pebbles to prevent erosion. Ten pots contained
the biochar mixture with soil, and ten pots contained the biochar mixture with sand. Each aquaponic
system had a fish tank with ten goldfish and a water pump. Water was pumped through the aquaponic
plants every twelve hours. Ammonia, pH, nitrite, nitrate, alkalinity, and hardness levels were tested.
Control group recorded 598cm in stem height, 103 leaves, 27cm leaf width, and 38.4cm leaf length.
Sand group recorded 626cm in stem height, 105 leaves, 30.5cm leaf width, and 39cm leaf length.
Aquaponics with soil group recorded 797cm, 139 leaves, 35.2cm leaf width, and 47.4cm leaf length.
Aquaponics with sand group had 792cm in stem height, 153 leaves, 35.3 leaf width, and 47.1cm leaf
length.
Water tests showed an ideal fish environment. Results confirmed the hypothesis.
Madelyn Alice
Schafer Can Acrylamide Affect Plant Life?
BOT
Morp
Question is " Can Acrylamide Affect Plant Life?" Acrylamide is a chemical that causes cancer to animals.
My hypothesis is that the will die because it is not a need of the plant. The basic things you need for the
experiment is: acrylamide, soil, cups, seeds, and water. I filled the cups with soil and put acrylamide in
some whereas I left some for controlled. The results showed that acrylamide helped the plant grow. This
is very cool but I advise you not to eat any products grown with acrylamide.
Alison Elizabeth Gossman
Does Manure Help Grass Grow?
BOT
ECOL
Farmers are everywhere in today’s society, but we don’t really mention their hard work as much as it
should be. Farmers work hard every day to make people’s lives easier. For my experiment I tested which
animal had the most beneficial fertilizer for plants. I tested cow, hog, horse, sheep and chicken manure,
Botany Abstracts
using water as my control group. My hypothesis was that the cow manure would have the highest
average, because I got the sample from grass-fed, meat cattle, which eat more than dairy cattle. I
predicted water would have the lowest average because the only time water is the only thing put onto
crops is in small personal gardens. I made tea out of the kinds on manure and watered grass with the tea
throughout two weeks of observation. My final results are as follows: hog, horse, sheep, cattle, chicken
and then water. My hypothesis was proven half correct, because water did have the lowest average, but
hog had the largest average.
Jacob C Dennis
MORP
The Effect of Nitrogen on Glycine max Yields, Protein, and Oil Content BOT
The objective was to compare Glycine max with nitrogen applied at planting to Glycine max without
nitrogen applied at planting. With an ever growing world population, we must increase Glycine max
yields to feed the world. Twelve alternating replications of Glycine max were planted, six with 150 liters
per hectare of nitrogen applied using a 2X2 in-row application and six without nitrogen applied.
Throughout the growing season, the replications were sampled randomly for population, DGCI, nodule
count, and leaf analysis. At maturity, the Glycine max were harvested. At the end of each replication,
the replication length, weight of the Glycine max, and moisture content was recorded. A sample was
collected from each replication and was sent to a lab to be analyzed for protein and oil content. The
average yield was calculated for each replication from the data collected at harvest. The average yield
for the nitrogen replications was 4,164.61 kg/ha (61.97 bu/ac) and 4,070.63 kg/ha (60.57 bu/ac) for the
no nitrogen. The data was not significant (p=0.496). The average protein content was 36.61% for the
nitrogen and 36.86% for the no nitrogen. The data was not significant (p=0.24). The average oil content
was 17.41% for the nitrogen and 17.62% for the no nitrogen. The data was not significant (p=0.37). The
outcome may have been different if the growing season was wetter and if less nitrogen was applied.
Additional research of nitrogen application on Glycine max needs to be performed to determine if it is
beneficial.
Julian Aaron Liber
The Viability of Invasive Species for Use in Biofuels
BOT
PHYS
Ethanol biofuels have become commonly used as a method to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from
fossil fuels used in transportation. First-generation biofuels produced from food crops are better in this
aspect, but still require land, water, and agricultural chemicals. Invasive species used to create secondgeneration biofuels from cellulose have possible benefits including minimal land and resource
requirements. This paper detailed one aspect of viability of three selected invasive species for the
production of cellulosic ethanol biofuel, as determined by their relative holocellulose content compared
to Zea mays as a control. These species were Alliaria petiolata, Ailanthus altissima, and Phragmites
australis. It was hypothesized that at least one of the species would be found to be more viable in terms
of holocellulose content than the control. Collected plant material from each species was ground to
form a powder, had extractives removed, and underwent delignification to determine holocellulose
content gravimetrically. The results found A. altissima had the highest holocellulose content, with Z.
mays, A. petiolata, and P. australis following respectively. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) showed overall
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difference between the groups (F = 17.48, p < 0.0001). A. altissima and Z. mays were not significantly
different (p=0.1097) as was A. petiolata and P. australis (p = 0.1028). All other relationships were
statistically significant. This indicates that none of the species had significantly higher holocellulose
composition than the control. A. altissima may be a good candidate for further investigation for use in
producing cellulosic ethanol, because it was closely comparable to the control.
Akul Ajit
approach
Rajan The phytotoxic effect of allelochemicals to help weed control in a natural
BOT
PHY
Herbicides, only effective solution to control weeds can cause negative health effects and chemicals
runoff into water pollutes the environment. I did this experiment to find a better solution than using
herbicides. My background research showed that some plants produce natural herbicides. Such action
and related chemical interaction is called Allelopathy.
My science fair question: Is there a phytotoxic effect of allelochemicals that can help weed control in a
natural approach?
My first experiment investigated 1a) How will different allelopathic extract (Juglone and Basil)
concentrations (100% and 50%) effect the weed? 1b) Is there a negative and positive allelopathic
impact? My hypothesis was that the Juglone100% extract would have a stronger deteriorating effect. On
the other hand, I hypothesized that Basil would have a positive allelopathic effect helping the weed
growth. In my second experiment, I investigated how different weeds health would be affected by
Juglone. My hypothesis was that the Juglone would massively deteriorate the condition of all weeds.
In both experiments only part of my hypothesis was proved right.
Juglone 100% deteriorated the condition of the weed leaves to 33% followed by the Juglone 50% (44%)
then Basil 100% (53%) and finally Basil 50% (59%). This proved the phytotoxic ability of Juglone. Basil did
not show a positive allelopathic effect though the weed did show germination.
One weed i.e. Catsear faced no change, while the other 2 weeds deteriorated. This showed that despite
the phytotoxity of Juglone, some weeds have tough fibers that stand up to Juglone.
Cathryn Patricia Murphy
The Effects of pH on the Growth of Raphanus Sativus BOT
PHYS
This experiment was formed to determine whether or not treating Raphanus sativus (radish) each day
with substances of varying pH affected growth. The hypothesis in the experiment was: If pH is related to
the growth of Raphanus sativus, then Raphanus sativus plants treated with basic or acidic substances
will not grow as tall as those only treated with neutral substances. Each day, five groups of ten plants
were treated, consisting of ten plants that were treated with high amounts of sulfur and another ten
plants that were treated with moderate amounts of sulfur. The sulfur was then converted into acidic
sulfuric compounds within the soil. Also included were a group of ten plants that were treated with high
amounts of the basic chemical calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and another ten plants that were treated
with moderate amounts of the substance. Finally, ten plants were treated only with neutral substances.
Each of the plants’ growth and germination was measured every other day for twenty one days. After
twenty one days, it was determined that Raphanus sativus plants treated with the highest amounts of
Botany Abstracts
acidic substances grew the least while those treated with only neutral substances grew the tallest. The
results supported the hypothesis because the plants treated with neutral substances grew the tallest.
Addyson Miller-Brown
Paper Mill Sludge: A Usable Fertilizer
BOT
PHYS
The question prompting this project is can paper mill sludge be used as fertilizer for plants and how does
it affect the pH of substrates? Plants rely on nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, water and other
micronutrients for growth. Paper mill sludge is made up of these nutrients and holds more water than
typical growing mediums. Paper mill sludge is also known to create a more neutral pH. Therefore,
soybean plants grown in 50% paper mill sludge will grow larger and produce more beans than plants
grown in 100% paper mill sludge, 75% paper mill sludge, 25% paper mill sludge, or the control. Also, the
substrate in the 100% paper mill sludge will have a higher nutrient concentration of nitrogen,
phosphorus, and potassium, and a more neutral pH than the 25%, 50%, 75% mixtures, and the control
group. To investigate the hypothesis, seeds were planted in the five mediums and allowed to grow for
63 days. Neither hypothesis was supported. Results of this project show that plants grown in 25% PMS
have more mass and have more bean pods on average. Finally, seeds planted in the 25% and 50% paper
mill sludge groups germinated at a higher rate. All of the tests run on the groups to test nutrient
content and pH came out the same. In conclusion, each hypothesis was incorrect. But paper mill sludge
does impact the growth of soybean plants in a positive way.
Natalie Anne
Morman
Heat's Effect on Radish Growth BOT
ECOL
This experiment involved planting radish seeds that have been exposed to different amounts of radiant
heat and microwave radiation. The seeds were placed in the microwave for the following intervals of
time; 15, 30, and 60 seconds. Other seeds were placed in the oven for 10, 30, and 60 minute intervals.
The seeds were planted in a growing cell and measured over the span of ten days. It was hypothesized
that the shortest intervals of time would grow best and no benefits would be shown through heat/
microwaves. The results showed that the hypothesis made was correct. The radish seeds that were
microwaved for the least amount of time not only grew quicker, they also were greener. The control
batch started sprouting before all of the others groups, naturally. The seeds microwaved for fifteen
seconds were much greener than those of the other groups. They had a greater number of leaves as
well as longer stems, shown through recorded measurements. In contrast, the seeds exposed to only
fifteen minutes of heat in the oven, failed to sprout.
Liliauna Carver
How Does Air Quality Affect Lichen Growth?
BOT
ecol
Have you ever been outside and seen little green crusty looking things on tree trunks or branches? Well
those are called lichens. A lichen is composed of two or more dissimiliar organisms, algae and fungus
that form a symbiotic relationship to produce a new vegetative body. In my research I found that
lichens are good bioindicators, which means they can give us a good indication of the health of an
environment.
Botany Abstracts
In my experiment I tested to see how air quality affects lichen growth, by soaking lichen disks in 6
different chemicals, I then placed the lichens that were in the chemicals in test tubes with 120 milliliters
of water and 7 drops of methylene blue. In my results the lead nitrate, mercury chloride, and potassium
chloride had the highest negative impact on the lichens. Methylene blue with water had the least
negative impact on the lichens.
Lindsey Ann Schneeg
Gibberellic Acid and Bean Plants
BOT
Morph
The purpose of this project is to find the correlation between amount and frequency of gibberellic acid
being applied to soybean plants and the resulting increase in plant height and bean weight. The
sampling included 56 soybean plants. They were separated into four sections with 14 individual plants in
each section. Groups were labeled A,B,C and D. The A section was the control where no gibberellic acid
was applied. Section B had the seeds soaked in gibberellic acid for 12 hours prior to planting. The
recipe for this application (formula 1) was a solution of 15 ml of water combined with one scoop of
gibberellic powder and mixed. Section C had formula 1 applied to it via sprayer every 2 weeks after the
plant had sprouted. Section D was sprayed with formula 1 once a month after the seeds sprouted.
Height measurements from the soil to the top of the stem for each plant was taken every 7 days and
recorded. This experiment proved the hypothesis of this project, which stated that an increase in the
amount of gibberellic acid applied to soybean plants will lead to taller stem growth and a higher yield.
The experiment showed that on average, the plants in section C, which had the most gibberellic acid
applied, had the tallest average bean stem height and higher weight.
Jenna Rose
Lapurga
How Do Magnetic Fields Affect Plant Growth? BOT
Plant Ecology
The purpose of this experiment is to determine if the presence of a magnetic field has any noticeable
effect on radish germination and development, and if so, what the effect would be. In 1862, Louis
Pasteur was the first to study magnetism and its effects on plants. The Earth’s natural magnetic pull is
called its geomagnetic field (GMF). Kinetic energy that converts into electrical conducting fluid is found
in the Earths core, which is the reason for its magnetism. GMF’s and magnetic fields are powerful
growth enhancers that have a profound effect on the growth of living organisms. This concept is called
biogenetics (the scientific study of magnetic fields applied to living tissue). It is known that gravity
affects plant growth by pulling on the plant’s protoplasm, causing a diamagnetic response, but little is
known about magnetism and its effects on plant growth. The hypothesis for this experiment is that if a
magnetic field is present near radish seeds, then those radishes will develop faster and healthier than
radish seeds without a magnetic presence. Neodymium magnets (the most powerful permanent
magnets ever made) were used to conduct the experiment. Ten of them were placed in the soil of
cherry belle radish seeds, and other cherry belle radish seeds, the controlled group, were grown without
a magnetic presence. The seeds with the magnetic presence germinated and developed faster than the
Botany Abstracts
controlled seeds, grew taller, and had better overall health, proving the hypothesis correct.
Mason Bradley Howell
Liquids That Grow Beans
BOT
The purpose of this experiment was to find out what liquids help a seed to sprout and grow. The
hypothesis stated that if different liquids are tested then the result would be that tap water will grow a
seed better than a seed tested with any other liquid. The procedures that were followed were placing a
seed and a napkin into a plastic bag and pouring thirty millimeters of tap water into that bag. Measure
how much the bean grows every two-three days. Then do this with the other liquids and compare the
results. The results of the experiment were proven partially correct because carbonated water grew the
seeds more efficiently instead of tap water. The results showed that carbonated water grew the seeds
more productively than tap water, salt water, and vinegar. The results of this experiment are important
because they show that carbonated water grows a seed better than tap water and salt water, and that
vinegar does not grow a bean at all. Lima and soybean farmers can use this information in their
everyday lives to know that carbonated water grows a seed/bean better and at a more efficient rate.
Deloris Corcoran
Does Carbonated Water Affect Soybean Growth?
BOT
ECOL
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a crucial element in the growth of plants. Plants use CO2 in the process of
photosynthesis to produce plant sugars and needed food for growth. The purpose of this experiment
was to determine if adding CO2 to the water used in the irrigation process of growing soybeans would
improve the overall growth of the plants. The hypothesis was if soybeans are watered with CO2-infused
water and well water, the soybeans with the CO2-infused water will grow taller and faster. To conduct
this experiment, thirty-six soybean seeds were started in optimal growing conditions. Nine were
watered with CO2-infused well water through a syringe, nine were watered with CO2-infused well
water with a spray bottle, nine were watered with regular well water with a syringe, and nine were
watered with regular well water with a spray. The results proved that the plants watered with CO2infused well water germinated faster and grew taller than the control group. The results proved the
hypothesis to be correct.
Cody
Nathaniel
Clark
The Effects of Wind Stress on Glycine max
BOT
ECOL
This project is a study of wind stress on Glycine max. The results from this project are important
because we need to maximize crop yields. It was hypothesized that the average stem length and leaf
surface area will decrease under wind stress. Soybeans were grown in both still air and in 8.4 mile per
hour wind. The results showed that soybeans grew the best in the still air. After analyzing the results,
it can be concluded that the hypothesis was supported by the data. The plants grown in wind were 17%
shorter than those growing in still air. Leaves on plants growing under wind stress had 66% less surface
area than those leaves on plants in still air. Applications for this research include increasing crop yields
in areas where wind is frequent. It will be beneficial for farmers to install or plant natural windbreaks to
reduce the impact of wind stress on their crops.
Botany Abstracts
VARSHINI ODAYAR
Radiation Exposure: A study of the biological effects of electromagnetic
radiation on plant growth
BOT
MORP
Electromagnetic radiation from natural sources can harm human health and cause the dangers all
around us. The purpose of this project was to discover the effects of these electromagnetic radiations
and its biological response to living cells by using radish seeds as the test organisms. The initial
prediction was that radiation would hinder the rate of germination and the early growth of the seedling.
,Ten seeds in each pot filled with 2 cups of soil were divided into 6 different groups and were exposed
to the various sources(Wi-Fi, microwave, visible light, infrared, ultraviolet and x-ray).Each plant received
the same amount of water and was placed under the same temperature on all days of the experiment.
The seeds were heated for 1 minute in microwave radiation and irradiated seeds were used for x-ray
radiation. The remaining seeds were placed under their respective radiation sources.
,Leaf appearance, stem development, germination rate and average height of the plants were recorded.
The ultraviolet, visible light and infrared radiations affected the seeds positively by enhancing
photosynthesis, chlorophyll and ATP production within plant tissues, while microwave radiation delayed
germination rate, radio waves affected leaf development negatively, and X ray radiation stunted plant
growth. The hypothesis was rejected, as radiation also benefited seed growth. In conclusion, radiation
has its own positive or negative effects, whether hindering or promoting plant growth.
,Agricultural scientists can implement these results in horticulture for supplemental light sources. NASA
can also use this concept for growing plants as food for long space explorations.
NOWSHIN ISLAM
Radiation Exposure: A study of the biological effects of electromagnetic
radiation on plant growth
BOT
MORP
Electromagnetic radiation from natural sources can harm human health and cause the dangers all
around us. The purpose of this project was to discover the effects of these electromagnetic radiations
and its biological response to living cells by using radish seeds as the test organisms. The initial
prediction was that radiation would hinder the rate of germination and the early growth of the seedling.
, Ten seeds in each pot filled with 2 cups of soil were divided into 6 different groups and were exposed
to the various sources(Wi-Fi, microwave, visible light, infrared, ultraviolet and x-ray).Each plant received
the same amount of water and was placed under the same temperature on all days of the experiment.
The seeds were heated for 1 minute in microwave radiation and irradiated seeds were used for x-ray
radiation. The remaining seeds were placed under their respective radiation sources.
,Leaf appearance, stem development, germination rate and average height of the plants were recorded.
The ultraviolet, visible light and infrared radiations affected the seeds positively by enhancing
photosynthesis, chlorophyll and ATP production within plant tissues, while microwave radiation delayed
germination rate, radio waves affected leaf development negatively, and X ray radiation stunted plant
growth. The hypothesis was rejected, as radiation also benefited seed growth. In conclusion, radiation
has its own positive or negative effects, whether hindering or promoting plant growth.
,Agricultural scientists can implement these results in horticulture for supplemental light sources. NASA
can also use this concept for growing plants as food for long space explorations.
Botany Abstracts
Meredith Suhr What is the most effective way to mechanically pollinate plants?
BOT MORP
Given the decrease in natural pollinators (i.e. bees and other pollinating insects) it is important to assess
manual pollination methods. The purpose of this experiment was to examine which mechanical
pollination method (artist’s brush vs. shaking) is the most effective for both compatible and
incompatible fast plants. Results showed that the artist’s brush method was significantly more effective
than the control group (no pollination) but was not different than shaking for the compatible plants
while neither method was significantly more effective than the control group for the incompatible
plants. Future studies should use bigger sample sizes and test these methods on produce plants.
Aspen R Schneller
Aquaponics Gardening
BOT
ECOL
The aquaponics system’s purpose is to help plants grow two to three times faster than the hydroponics
system, but there are different theories on what helps the plants grow. One theory is the fish manure
will increase the amount of nitrogen in the soil which helps the plants grow. Also, the way the system is
set up, without having soil, takes stress off the plants’ roots which allows the plants to grow faster. The
purpose of my experiment is to find out if the aquaponics system will increase the amount of nitrogen in
the soil and observe if the lettuce plants grow faster, compared to lettuce plants in the hydroponics
system. My hypothesis is based on books I have read on aquaponics and data people have found, such
as the Fresh Harvest Farm owners.
To test my hypothesis, I set up two hydroponics systems, one system contained five goldfish (being the
aquaponics system). I observed and recorded the height of the plants every day for three weeks at eight
o’clock p.m. Also, every four days I tested the nitrogen and pH levels to support my hypothesis. I took a
picture of each system and created graphs to support my data.
The aquaponics system supported my hypothesis because the lettuce plants grew 2.76 times quicker
than the plants in the hydroponics system. Also, the data taken for the nitrogen was three levels higher
in the aquaponics system compared to the hydroponics system, resulting in the aquaponics system’s
plants growing more efficiently.
Maury Finn Tan
Soak & Resolve the Bean Mystery
BOT
MORP
The experiment that I’m doing is about: Can black beans soften faster or slower if they were soaked in
vinegar, rubbing alcohol, or 1% low-fat milk, rather than just tap water? The beans will be soft enough if
a toothpick can easily go through the beans.
I did this analysis because my parents like making food with beans in it. I found out that a black bean is a
good source of protein and fiber. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that are good
for your body. Having known this information, I became curious on the process of cooking black beans.
The packaging’s instruction states that the first step in cooking beans is to soak the beans in water
overnight. I am trying to help my parents seek a much faster and efficient way to soften beans than
soaking them overnight. This is the reason that I did this experiment.
The data that I need is the time that it takes to soften beans by soaking it with the following substances:
Botany Abstracts
vinegar, rubbing alcohol, milk, and water. I need to find out if these substances can soften black beans
faster or slower than tap water.
The outcome was unexpected. I thought that the bean soaked in water will definitely soften the fastest
because it doesn’t have as much fat, acid, and chemicals as the other liquids. It turned out that my
hypothesis is wrong.
Claire Kinnear
Grafting Peas and Beans
BOT
MORP
Grafting- a common gardening technique that unites a scion (top of one plant) with a rootstock (the root
of another plant). Often times people graft their plants in order to repair a broken or injured plant, to
speed up the growth by giving it a well developed rootstock, or to create a variety of plants in a safe
way. The researcher wanted to test the quality of grafting among pea plants and bean plants to see if
they would produce more fruit of higher quality, or if any crossing of the individual genomes would
occur. The researcher hypothesized that grafted plants would grow faster, produce more, and be of
better quality than the originals. To begin, the researcher planted 6 bean plants and 6 pea plants. After
the plants were well developed, the researcher took 3 of each plant and crossed the tops of the peas
and the bottom of the beans. Over the next 30 days, all of the plants were monitored and measured in
height. Overall, the grafted plants had wilted and died, while the original plants grew at a healthy rate.
What the researcher has concluded is that grafting is a difficult skill to master, and many methods could
be tweaked to have a more favorable outcome. If the researcher had chosen plants with stems of more
similar diameter, the plants might have lived. In conclusion, it is still an important experiment as it
shows how delicate the lives of plants truly are, and only masters can manipulate them safely.
Laurienna Sky Kurucz
Plants and Proximity
BOT
SYST
Will proximity between plants affect plant growth and health? Plants were planted with high, medium,
and low proximities to other plants and tended. The plants with the highest proximity to other plants
grew the slowest and had the highest number of seeds that did not sprout.
Lauren Zipp
The Biosorption of Heavy Metals by Invasive Plants of Ohio
BOT
PHYS
Heavy metal water contamination is prevalent in the environment, and scientists are seeking alternative
and more efficient water purification methods. Scientists have turned to biosorption, the use of natural
materials to absorb metals from wastewater.
This experiment extended last year’s project that tested phragmites’ and cilantro’s removal of lead. This
year’s experiment tested phragmites and garlic mustard for the removal of lead, copper, iron, and zinc.
The hypothesis stated that phragmites would absorb more zinc and iron, and garlic mustard would
absorb more lead and copper. The results of the experiment did not support most of these predictions.
The hypothesis was tested using a flame spectrophotometer to analyze the concentration of metals in a
1 or 10 ppm solution after four days of being in contact with dried and crushed plant material. Three
trials were conducted for each metal and plant combination. The results were calculated using the
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prepared calibration standards and then compared to the corresponding 10 ppm metal control solution.
Per average gram of plant, Garlic mustard absorbed a greater amount of lead, iron, and zinc, at
0.1740mg, 0.05211mg, and 0.06825mg, respectively. Phragmites absorbed more copper at 0.01106mg,
compared to garlic mustard’s 0.09867mg. Garlic mustard absorbed the greatest amount of lead,
averaging 0.1740mg lead per gram of plant (around 87%). These findings revealed that garlic mustard
was more effective in the removal of the metals than phragmites, an exciting discovery that makes garlic
mustard a promising candidate for the removal of lead from wastewater.
Richard A. Pignatiello
Ecology
Which Fertilizer Will Produce The Greatest Yield
BOT
ECOL-Plant
What fertilizer produces the greatest yield? In my project I used eight green peppers, eight yellow
peppers, eight tomatoes, and eight sunflowers. I took two of each plant and stuck them in four separate
sections: compost, poultry manure, synthetic fertilizer, and control to see which fertilizer produced the
greatest yield. I originally had four manures in my proposal but had to remove one and change another.
My hypothesis was cow manure would produce the greatest yield, but I changed manures and my
hypotheses became compost/cow manure. However, I learned that not one fertilizer fits all. My
hypothesis was not supported by my results. Poultry manure did the best in green peppers, synthetic
fertilizer did the greatest in sunflowers and yellow peppers, and control had the best tomatoes. During
the 2014 summer, there were a lot of bad storms and a few tornadoes. These storms knocked plants
over more than once, and the plants had to be tied up. After my 100 days of growing, the garden
literally collapsed due to a storm on day 101. In the end, synthetic fertilizer was the best overall, but all
plants like something different and should be researched before fertilized.
Kayleigh Queiser
How Phosphates in Fertilizer Affect Algal Growth
BOT
Plant Ecology
The purpose of my experiment was to discover the effect of different levels of phosphorous added into
phosphate-free fertilizer on algal growth in different local water samples. I hypothesized that the
phosphate-free samples would have half as much algal growth than those samples with levels of
phosphorous. In 4 different samples of local water, tap water, Hudson Springs Park water with and
without blue green algae added, and my backyard pond water (in 4 oz. samples in 8 oz. bottles), I added
a small amount of blue green algae to each sample except for one set of Hudson Springs water. Next, I
put the same amount of phosphate-free fertilizer into each sample, but left 4 controls. Then, I added 20
µg/L of the phosphorous solution in one of each sample, 40 µg/L in one of each sample, 80 µg/L in one
of each, 160 µg/L in one of each, and then left one of each sample phosphate solution-free. After
aerating, shaking and capping each bottle once a day for 2 weeks, the samples with 160 µg/L of
phosphate solution had visibly the most algal growth.
Madison Hildebrand
Aquaponics versus Hydroponics
BOT
ECOL
The problem is, ‘Do common leafy plants grow better in an aquaponic or hydroponic system?’
It is hypothesized that common leafy plants will grow better in an aquaponic system.
A brief procedure of the experiment is as follows. One hydroponic system and one aquaponic system
Botany Abstracts
was made according to the directions given in the Procedure. Six of each type of plant were planted in
each system. There were three different types of plants. Each plant was measured every other day and
the results were recorded in a log book.
My hypothesis was supported in some cases and rejected in others depending on the type of plant being
grown.
Anna K Whiting
Classical Music and Cosmos
BOT
MORP
People have often wondered if music affects plant growth; so an experiment was created. To do this
experiment, one must place 20 cosmos seeds into each of 2 pots and give them water, playing classical
music to one of them daily for 2 hours. The results of this experiment were that classical music causes
the plants to grow taller and more plants sprout. To do this experiment more accurately, I would plant
the flowers in May instead of December and add plants that are played jazz, pop, and rap music. These
are the average and correct results. In conclusion, playing classical music to cosmos flowers will cause
them to grow taller and more plants to sprout.
Alexa Lillie
Draper Pansies and the Perfect Light
BOT
MORP
Plants usually grow outside. But what happens when they need to be protected from the cold of winter?
My question is do artificial lights promote more plant growth than actual sunlight through a window?
For example, if I want to start some seeds for plants inside, should I put them in a sunny window or
should I place them underneath an artificial grow light? My hypothesis was that if plants are placed
under an artificial grow light and in a sunlit window, then the plants under the grow lights will grow
faster, because the grow lights will have more concentrated light that will help promote plant growth.
In this experiment, I planted twenty pansy seeds on the same day. I placed ten pansy seeds under an
artificial grow light and ten pansy seeds in a sunny window. All seeds were watered equally and
measured on the same days.
What I observed was that my hypothesis was in fact proven correct because all but two of the plants in
the artificial light sprouted and all but four of the sunlit plants sprouted. I have come to the conclusion
that if you want to start plants as seeds and you wish to start them inside, then you should purchase an
artificial grow light to grow your plants under because it has more benefits for your seedlings than the
regular sunlight that is coming through your window does."
Anna
M. Kruse
Is Biochar a Viable Soil Amendment?
BOT
ECOL
Many people want to add amendments to their soil to benefit their plants and improve the quality of
their soil. This experiment investigated whether biochar is a viable soil amendment. It was hypothesized
that the addition of biochar to soil would increase a plant's root growth and overall growth, as well as
increasing the germination success rate, while decreasing the soil’s moisture and water retention
capacity. Cool white florescent lights and fixtures, Arabidopsis thaliana seeds, seed starting trays,
premium potting soil, 100% hardwood biochar, and water were used to test the hypothesis. In the
Botany Abstracts
experiment, soil mixtures with 0%, 25%, 50%, and 75% biochar were used to grow 25 plants each. The
germination success rate was recorded, as well as the overall plant and root growth. Then the soil’s
moisture and water retention capacity were tested and recorded. The hypothesis was partially
supported. The testing group with 25% biochar showed a higher germination success rate than the soil
with no biochar. However, when more than 25% biochar was added, the rate decreased compared to
the control group. The same is true for overall plant growth. The portion of the hypothesis regarding
root growth was supported because biochar was shown to steadily increase root growth. The hypothesis
was also supported since biochar caused a steady decrease in soil moisture and water retention
capacity. In cases of biochar over 25%, the soil was reduced to levels of moisture that were poor for
plant growth. In this experiment, it was shown that the key to using biochar as an effective soil
amendment is moderation.
Hrishi Kousik
Circadian clock in plants
BOT
Plant Morphology
Ever experienced jet lag? Have you ever thought if plants could face the same thing? Well, that is what
our project is all about.
The purpose of our project is to prove that plants actually have a circadian clock, a mechanism that
regulates all daily functions of life, similar to humans.
We conducted experiments over six weeks to test the results. We used plants called Oxalis Triangularis,
which, under normal day and night conditions, open their leaves during days and close their leaves
during nights. In our experiments, we controlled the amount of light by closing the blinds and drapes
during days to simulate the night conditions, and turning on all lights during nights to simulate the day
conditions. We found that after a while the plant learns to adapt the flipped day-night cycle.
We recorded the data on the outcomes from doing the experiment. We did this by noting the
date,time,condition and the measurement of leaf opening. We did this for normal day and night-time
and after switching the times.
Our experiment worked out as planned. This discovery can help change our perspective of how plants
adapt to their environments - which in-turn could throw light on whether light can be used as a growth
enhancer. This becomes necessary with growing population and the need for organic healthy food.
Grace Frances Fuchs
Studying the Establishment of Viburnum lantana
BOT
ECOL
The purpose of this research was to gain a better understanding of the establishment of Viburnum
lantana, commonly known as the wayfaring tree. In 1997, nine shrubs were introduced at the USFS
Research Laboratory in Delaware, Ohio. I hypothesized that the success of establishment was influenced
by distance from the original planting and openings in the forest canopy. To test the hypothesis, a total
of 300 individuals were GPS mapped across the property. All individuals were classified into groups
based on visual estimates of height and stem count. Thirty individuals were more intensively sampled.
They were considered representative of the entire population and chosen based on location, height
class, and stem class. A poor relationship between height and distance form origin was found (R2 =
0.1274). Aging some of the shrubs showed that the original point of introduction was much earlier than
originally thought. Therefore, no correlation between height and distance from the origin could be
Botany Abstracts
found. The population was found more frequently in mixed hardwood forest, which has more open
canopy due to the death of ash trees. Since the invasive shrub Viburnum lantana has become well
established, it poses a serious threat to local flora.
Timmy Joseph Andrews
Rates BOT
PHYS
Effects of a Hypobaric Environment on Plant Growth and Germination
As we continue our dreams of conquering the frontier of space, we may one day wish to inhabit these
new places. To do this, we will need to explore the possibilities of terraforming other celestial bodies to
support human life. To this end, I tested the effects low pressure had on a plants’ ability to germinate
and grow. I predicted that a hypobaric environment would retard the plants’ growth and germination
rates due to lack of CO2 in the enclosure. To test this, I constructed a vacuum chamber, placed 18 seeds
and 18 seedlings of corn into the enclosure, and reduced the pressure to ½ atm. For the next ten days I
recorded the daily humidity and temperature, germination rate and time of each seed, and initial and
final heights, along with the final biomass of the seedlings. I compared these results to a control
enclosure which had the same set-up, but remained at atmospheric pressure. From this data, I
discovered that both the germination and growth rates were, in actuality, positively affected by the
lower pressure. More seeds germinated and it occurred earlier in the hypobaric environment. The
seedlings also experienced a higher growth rate as compared to the control, as their average biomass
and final height were both higher than the control. With this data, I can conclude that a plant can
germinate and grow in a hypobaric environment, and at a better rate than atmospheric pressure, which
gives a very positive outlook to the future of terraforming.
Sierra E Wentz
Water Quality: What type of dung makes duckweed grow the most?
ECOL Plant Ecology
BOT
The purpose of this project was to figure out what type of dung makes duckweed grow the most. My
research showed that people grow duckweed to harvest and to eliminate algae problems in ponds. In
six different containers, I put 20 duckweed in 6 cups of water. I put 1 Tablespoon of dung in each
container except one container, which was the control. Each container had a different type of dung,
including rabbit, horse, dog, duck, and chicken. I counted how many duckweed were in each container
weekly. I thought that the duck dung would make the duckweed grow the most. The dog dung
produced the highest amount of duckweed (an average of 52) over seven weeks and the horse dung
produced the lowest (an average of 9).
Carolyn Cox
The Future of Feces: Fertilizer Effectiveness
BOT
ECOL
Feces is used a lot by farmers, so this project could be valuable in helping farmers grow better crops.
The purpose of this experiment was to find out what type of feces would grow plants the tallest. It was
hypothesized that if Lima beans are planted in rabbit feces, chicken feces, horse feces, cow feces, and
pig feces then rabbit feces will grow the tallest plants, because rabbit feces has a higher level of
Botany Abstracts
nutrients. Two seeds were planted in starters filled with each type of feces and measured biweekly. The
data was analyzed and the conclusion was drawn that the rabbit feces grew the tallest plants at 116.00
mm, proving the hypothesis correct. Rabbit feces has high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, both of
which are known to cause rapid growth and reproduction in a plant.
Karlie Louise Vandeborne
Germination? BOT
ECOL
How Does Temperature Of A Soy Bean Seed Before Planting Affect
The hypothesis of this project is that the room temperature seeds will germinate first because they were
not exposed to any extraordinary temperatures. In this experiment, nine seeds were placed in a freezer
at -20°C, nine seeds were placed in a heating pad at 45°C, and nine seeds were kept at room
temperature at 22°C for twelve hours. Then the seeds were planted in 0.5L of soil and watered with
100ml of distilled water every other day for ten days. Germination was recorded.
The results of this project proved that the room temperature seeds did not germinate before the other
seeds. The room temperature and frozen seeds germinated on the same day for all three trials. It was
also proven that the heated seeds were most affected by their temperature because heating the seeds
increased the moisture levels and inhibited germination. This experiment proved the hypothesis
incorrect. A cool, dry environment with moisture levels around 10% is best for seed storage."
BRADLEY CHAO
Investigation of Circadian Rhythms of Plants
BOT
SYST
Ever experienced jet lag? Have you ever thought if plants could face the same thing? Well, that is what
our project is all about.
The purpose of our project is to prove that plants actually have a circadian clock, a mechanism that
regulates all daily functions of life, similar to humans.
We conducted experiments over six weeks to test the results. We used plants called Oxalis Triangularis,
which, under normal day and night conditions, open their leaves during days and close their leaves
during nights. In our experiments, we controlled the amount of light by closing the blinds and drapes
during days to simulate the night conditions, and turning on all lights during nights to simulate the day
conditions. We found that after a while the plant learns to adapt the flipped day-night cycle.
We recorded the data on the outcomes from doing the experiment. We did this by noting the
date,time,condition and the measurement of leaf opening. We did this for normal day and night-time
and after switching the times.
Our experiment worked out as planned. This discovery can help change our perspective of how plants
adapt to their environments - which in-turn could throw light on whether light can be used as a growth
enhancer. This becomes necessary with growing population and the need for organic healthy food.
Madeline McFarland
Which Weed Killer Works Fastest?
BOT
ECOL
The purpose of this project was to see which weed killer worked the fastest. Weed killers that were
tested were Roundup Weed and Grass Killer, Spectracide Weed and Grass Killer, Vinegar, and boiling
water. The hypothesis was, ‘If 25 radish plants, 5 control plants and 20 with various weed killers, are
Botany Abstracts
planted and grown, then the radish plants with weed killer #1 which is Roundup Weed and Grass Killer,
will kill the radish plants the fastest.’ The procedure was done by planting 50 radish cups. After the
plants were all grown, the 25 plants that looked the best were chosen to be sprayed with weed killer;
five with Roundup, five with Spectracide, five with vinegar, and five with boiling water. The results
showed that Roundup worked the fastest and prevented the weeds from growing back. In conclusion,
the hypothesis was correct.
ALLISON DREW MIZER
WHICH WORKS BEST FOR RADISH PLANT GROWTH?
BOT
MORP
The purpose of this experiment was to find out if the synthetic fertilizer, Miracle Gro, would cause seeds
to sprout quicker and the plants to grow taller than those receiving no fertilizer. The claim of this
product is that ‘Miracle-Gro will grow bigger, more bountiful plants’. This experiment was done using
twenty-four radish seeds. Half received Miracle-Gro and half received distilled water only. The data was
obtained by observing and recording the exact day each seed sprout appeared. As the plants grew, the
height of each was measured and recorded at the same time of day for twenty-eight days. After three
separate trials, the results showed that the twelve seeds fertilized with Miracle-Gro sprouted an average
of 0.3 of a day quicker than the twelve without fertilizer. The data results for the average maximum
height of the radish plants showed that the twelve plants without Miracle-Gro actually grew fifteen
millimeters taller than the twelve with Miracle-Gro.
Benjamin Thomas
Genetic Modification, Water, and Soybean Performance
BOT
PHYSIO
The question that I researched was: Does the amount of water given significantly affect average plant
height after twenty-one days in genetically modified versus wild-type soybeans? Before experimenting, I
had to research the topic of genetic modification and how to grow soybeans indoors. I tested this by
arranging eighteen six-pot cells in two rows of nine under a grow light, with the left six being A with 0.75
inches of water every other day, the middle six B with one inch, and the left six C with 1.25 inches. The
back three cells in each group had wild-type seeds and the front three GM seeds. This explains the
subgroup names (group C wild type: Cw). Over twenty-one days I took data and averages for each cell
for average plant height, seeds germinated and mass of biological material and water. My hypothesis
was that if my procedure was followed, then subgroup Cg would have the highest values in the three
dependent variables. It would be followed by Bg, Ag, Cw, Bw, and Aw because of the advantage of more
water and the superlative genetic advantage. The order of subgroups in height and germination was Cw,
Bw, Aw, Bg, Ag, then Cg. This could be because the GM plants were adapted to different conditions or
the seeds were old/a bad batch. The plants had little effect on mass. The field of genetic modification
has applications including biofactories and increasing hardiness and yield in plants."
Alexander Sawchuk
Optimizing Algae Growth In A Photobioreactor
BOT
MORP
The purpose of doing this experiment was to find the ideal growing conditions for algae in a
photobioreactor. The hypothesis in this experiment was that the algae grown in a nutrient solution,
placed in a 72-degree environment and exposed to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of dark every day
Botany Abstracts
would grow the best when compared to the other conditions. Theprocedute of this experiment
involved building 4 mock photobioreactors out of 50ml test tubes and test tube racks. Then the test
tubes were filled with either water or nutrient solution as well as 2ml of the algae solution. Then the
four photobioreactors were placed in different conditions to see which condition caused the algae to
grow more. The hypothesis was confirmed, the algae being grown in nutrient solution, placed in 72degree temperature, and were exposed to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of dark grew the best out of all
the groups.
Francesca Boni
ECOL
Which Grows Lettuce Faster: The Hydroponics System Or Regular Soil? BOT
This project is titled ""Which Grows Lettuce Faster: The Hydroponics System Or Regular Soil?"" The
hypothesis of this project is that the lettuce plants in the hydroponics system will grow faster each week
because of the continuous water supply the plants receive. In this experiment, thirty lettuce plants are
planted in soil and watered with water and thirty are planted in rockwool with a nutrient solution. The
plants are compared in height over time.
This project demonstrated the different methods of plant growing. It also demonstrated the rapid
growth rate of hydroponics. The research also found that the hydroponically grown plants mature 30%
to 50% faster and yield more than the soil grown plants for multiple reasons. One being the nutrients
sent straight to the roots and not indirectly to the soil. The hydroponic plants also use very little energy
to break down food. The experiment showed that the hypothesis was partially correct because the
hydroponics did grow faster than the soil grown plants, but not just because of the continuous water
supply.
Aubree Ann Arlene Houin
When Less is More: The Effect of Reduced Planting Rates on Ohio
Soybean Yields and Profitability
BOT
PHYS
My science fair project is titled, ‘When Less is More: The Effect of Reduced Planting Rates on Ohio
Soybean Yields and Profitability.’ My objective was to determine if reduced soybean planting rates
would result in higher yields and/or greater profitability in Ohio soybean fields. I selected this project
because I wanted to learn more about soybeans and how farmers can increase their profitability on this
important Ohio crop. My hypothesis was that modern agricultural production methods allow farmers to
significantly reduce traditional soybean planting rates and populations without sacrificing yield,
therefore improving on-farm profitability. I believe the reduced input cost from reducing seeding
populations coupled with improved yields will result in greater profitability for Ohio soybean farmers. I
believe reduced planting populations will provide greater space per plant and allow plants to utilize their
energy for developing beans rather than vertical growth caused by competition for sunlight. Controlled
variables were the soybean variety, weather, planting date, tractor operator, tractor and planter,
combine, yield monitor, AgLeader Integra unit, 15-inch row spacing, and soil fertility. Measured
variables were seeding population rate, yield, soil type, and management zones. Yield was measured as
bushels per acre measured through yield monitor in combine and analyzed on AgStudio GIS software.
Upon completion of my project, I learned we can continue to reduce soybean planting populations in
Ohio soybean fields without negatively affecting yield or income."
Botany Abstracts
Benjamin Carter Fox Spradling
Water vs. Soil BOT
ECOL-Plant Ecology
Hydroponic growing has come to be a hot topic because of the demand for clean, organic, and
sustainable growing. For this project I had four different environments and place three philodendron
plants in each environment to see which one grew the tallest. The four different environments that I
used were Water, Water with Fertilizer, Soil, and Soil with Fertilizer. I measured the plants to find how
tall they were every two days in each environment. My hypothesis was that Water with Fertilizer plants
would grow the tallest. The hypothesis was not supported by the results because the water plants were
the tallest in the end. This experiment proves that growing philodendron plants hydroponically is the
best way to get the biggest growth.
Sarah Lena Kikel
contaminated soil
Using Wisconsin Fast Plants (Brassica rapa) to phytoremediate zinc
BOT
ECOL
Heavy metal pollution in soil and water is a worldwide environmental problem. Phytoremediation, the
use of plants to clean up the environment by absorbing heavy metals in soil, water, or air, has been
previously used to eliminate pollutants in contaminated areas. Wisconsin Fast Plants (Brassica rapa) is a
common field mustard which has a rapid life cycle and can be grown under a variety of conditions. This
plant could be a practical, cost effective tool for soil clean up. The purpose of this experiment was to
determine Brassica rapa’s ability to phytoremediate zinc in artificially contaminated soils. Plants were
grown in soils contaminated with 6.54 ppm (low), 65.4 ppm (medium), and 654 ppm (high) of zinc. After
contamination, all plant group height averages continued to increase until day 25, where the medium
and high groups decreased slightly. After determining the specific amount of zinc in the plant material,
it was found that all the contaminated plants had absorbed some of the zinc. The amount of zinc in
each plant group increased as the contamination levels increased. Under these specific conditions
Brassica rapa is able to absorb zinc.
Francisco garabis
caffeine effect on plant growth BOT
morp
growth of plants using caffeine
Kyle James Peck
A Plant's Best Friend: Fish or Fertilizer?
BOT
ECOL
The purpose of this experiment is to find out if a fish feces water mixture and a liquid manmade fertilizer
added to different soils can change the way plants grow.
The experiment began with watering soybean plants with either an organic fish feces mixture or a
manmade fertilizer mixture. Then, the plant's growth and overall healthiness was observed and
recorded every few days over a period of time. This experiment was conducted two times using a new
set of seeds, pots, and fertilizers each time. The amounts of sunlight, water, and temperatures were the
same for all the plants throughout the experiment.
Botany Abstracts
The hypothesis is that the soil fertilized with the fish feces water mixture will have the greatest effect on
the plant's growth.
The results showed that the plants in the soil fertilized with the fish feces water mixture had the overall
largest amount of growth. Therefore, the hypothesis was proven correct."
allison Nicole frank
Maple Tree Sap
BOT
ecol
Research Question, The research question is ‘ which trees produce the most sap?’
Hypothesis, I believe that trees with a larger circumference will produce more sap because the tree will
have more storage for the sap.
Procedure, I measured the circumference of the trees and counted the branches on the maple trees. My
father and I then drilled holes in the trees and tied empty water jugs on the tree to catch the falling sap.
Every day I went outside and measured how much sap the trees produced.
Conclusion, The results indicate that my hypothesis was incorrect. My results were inconclusive, but I
noticed that trees #10 - #15, which face south west, produced the most sap.
Sophia Paul
Increasing Soybean Germination Rate BOT
MORP
Seed germination begins with the rupturing of the seed coat and the emergence of the radicle, which
will form the first roots of the seedling. Molybdenum is a catalyst for several enzymatic reactions in a
cell, and potassium chloride is an essential macronutrient for plants. Gibberellic acid stimulates cell
division, and polyethylene glycol lowers osmotic potential of cells. The experiment tested the
germination rate of soybean seeds in molybdenum, potassium chloride, gibberellic acid, polyethylene
glycol, and distilled water solutions. The hypothesis was that if gibberellic acid stimulates cell division
and decreases dormancy, then a higher percent of the soybean seeds in the gibberellic acid solution will
germinate than in the other solutions. 48 soybean seeds were germinated on cotton pads soaked in
each solution for ten days. A similar percentage of seeds in the molybdenum, potassium chloride,
gibberellic acid, and distilled water solutions germinated by the end of the duration of the experiment.
Fewer seeds in the polyethylene glycol solution germinated, and the radicles of the germinated seeds in
the polyethylene glycol solution were significantly shorter than the radicles of the seeds germinated in
other solutions. The radicles of the seeds in the potassium chloride solution were longer than the
radicles of seeds in the other solutions.
Katherine Lynn Gothard
Increasing Germination Rate of Glycine Max Seeds
BOT
ECOL
Seed germination begins with the rupturing of the seed coat and the emergence of the radicle, which
will form the first roots of the seedling. Molybdenum is a catalyst for several enzymatic reactions in a
cell, and potassium chloride is an essential macronutrient for plants. Gibberellic acid stimulates cell
division, and polyethylene glycol lowers osmotic potential of cells. The experiment tested the
germination rate of soybean seeds in molybdenum, potassium chloride, gibberellic acid, polyethylene
glycol, and distilled water solutions. The hypothesis was that if gibberellic acid stimulates cell division
and decreases dormancy, then a higher percentage of the soybean seeds in the gibberellic acid solution
Botany Abstracts
will germinate than in the other solutions. 48 soybean seeds were germinated on cotton pads soaked in
each solution for ten days. A similar percentage of seeds in the molybdenum, potassium chloride,
gibberellic acid, and distilled water solutions germinated by the end of the duration of the experiment.
Fewer seeds in the polyethylene glycol solution germinated, and the radicles of the germinated seeds in
the polyethylene glycol solution were significantly shorter than the radicles of the seeds germinated in
other solutions. The radicles of the seeds in the potassium chloride solution were longer than the
radicles of the seeds in the other solutions.
Cameron Phillips
Household Plant Solutions
BOT
ECOL
Gardeners everywhere try to find the best substances to help their plants grow taller and faster without
polluting the water with chemicals. This experiment is about trying to find an environmentally safe liquid
that will help the plants sprout the fastest and grow the tallest in the days provided. For our procedure
we put two bean seeds in a cup of soil. We planted three cups for each liquid so we would have multiple
trials. For the first two days we gave the plants 2 tablespoons of 75% water and 25% of each
independent variable. From then on we used 2 tablespoons every other day.To control the experiment,
we made sure all of our plants were in the same location. We wrote journal entries on the plants every
day noting how the plants changed or did something odd. Our experiment showed that the plants with
the tea grew an average height of 7.8 centimeters. The average for the controlled variable (just water)
was 3.1 centimeters. The average height for the peroxide was 2.7 centimeters. The average for the
lemon juice was 1 centimeter. The average for the salt water and the Mountain Dew was zero. Another
thing we noticed is that Mountain Dew and lemon juice seemed to make the plants moldy which could
be from the acid. Our conclusion is that tea helped the plants grow the fastest and the tallest. We think
that the tea does well because it has natural ingredients.
Luke
Elliot
Combs
Household Plant Solutions
BOT
ecol
Gardeners everywhere try to find the best substances to help their plants grow taller and faster without
polluting the water with chemicals. This experiment is about trying to find an environmentally safe liquid
that will help the plants sprout the fastest and grow the tallest in the days provided. For our procedure
we put six seeds for each different liquid and put two in each cup. For the first two days we watered
them. Then we watered them every other day.To control the experiment, we made sure all of our plants
were in the same location. We wrote journal entries on the plants every day noting how the plants
changed or did something odd. Our experiment showed that tea was the best for the plants because it
grew the plants the fastest and the tallest. The peroxide seemed to help the plants just not as much as
the tea did. Another thing we noticed is that Mountain Dew and lemon juice seemed to make the plants
moldy which could be from the acid.