PL 5.02Plant Care
The child checks the soil, waters a plant, wipes its leaves, and removes dead leaves.
Presentation
- 1
Invite the child. Put on an apron and carry the plant to a table on a tray.
- 2
Press a finger into the soil. Say: "It is dry. The plant needs water." If it is wet, it does not need water today.
- 3
Fill the watering can halfway at the sink.
- 4
Pour slowly at the base of the plant, around the soil, not on the leaves. Stop when water appears in the saucer (point of interest).
- 5
Wipe each large leaf gently with a damp sponge, supporting the leaf from underneath with your other hand.
- 6
Pinch off brown or dry leaves and place them in the bowl.
- 7
Wipe up drips, carry the plant back, and empty the bowl into the compost or trash.
- 8
Invite the child to care for another plant.
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- Mist a plant that likes humidity
- Keep a plant-care chart with a mark for each watering
- Repot a plant into a larger pot
- Plant seeds and care for seedlings
Control of error
The finger test in the soil; water in the saucer shows enough has been given.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Checks the soil before watering
- Waters without overflowing the saucer
- Notices and cares for a plant without being asked
Guide note
Check that classroom plants are non-toxic to children.