Make a Soda Bottle Terrarium

A soda bottle terrarium is a fun and simple project for Cub Scouts. It gives them a hands-on way to learn about nature and the environment. Scouts love activities where they can create something, and this project also teaches them about plants and ecosystems. It fits perfectly with the values of Scouting, such as learning by doing and working with others.

Making a terrarium also introduces the concept of Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Scouts reuse a plastic bottle to create a small garden. This can lead to discussions about protecting the Earth. The project connects with lessons on conservation and responsibility for nature.

The terrarium also requires ongoing care. Scouts can learn how to observe and adjust how much water their plants need. It teaches them to be patient and responsible as they care for their plants over time. These life skills are part of Scouting’s overall goal of developing character.

I think all of my kids made these terrariums at one point or another – either in Scouts or at school. They usually lasted for several months, even though the kids tended to forget about them at times. Then, they suddenly remembered and gave them too much attention, often adding more water than needed. It’s a great way for them to learn about balance and care when it comes to plants.

Finally, this craft is easy to do with simple materials. It can be done at a Den meeting or at home. Parents and leaders can assist with the cutting part, but most of the project can be done by the Scouts themselves. It’s a great way for them to get creative and learn at the same time.

The soda bottle terrarium ties in well with Scouting because it teaches important lessons through hands-on activity. Scouts learn by doing, and this project gives them a chance to understand nature while being creative. Building a terrarium helps them think about how plants grow and how ecosystems work, which fits the Scouting goal of learning about the environment.

This project also connects with the Scouting value of responsibility. After making the terrarium, Scouts have to take care of it. They learn how to pay attention to the needs of their plants, making sure the soil is moist but not too wet. This teaches patience and care over time, both key skills in Scouting and in life.

Finally, the terrarium project shows Scouts how they can make a difference by reusing materials. Using a soda bottle for the terrarium introduces the ideas of Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. It encourages Scouts to think about how they can help the environment in small but meaningful ways. Scouting is about being helpful and responsible, and this project is a fun way to practice those ideals.

Some plants do really well in a soda bottle terrarium. You want to pick plants that stay small and don’t need a lot of space. This way, they can grow inside the bottle without getting too big. Here are some good choices.

Small ferns are great for terrariums. They like moist soil and don’t need direct sunlight. They stay small and fit nicely in a bottle. They also look green and healthy for a long time.

Moss is another good choice. It doesn’t need much care, and it grows well in low light. Moss is easy to add to the soil, and it makes the terrarium look like a tiny forest floor.

Succulents can work too, but they need less water. If you choose succulents, water very lightly and make sure the soil dries out between watering. Succulents like lots of sunlight, so place the terrarium in a bright spot.

You can also try planting seeds. Herbs like basil or parsley grow quickly and are fun to watch. Just be sure to give them enough light. It’s exciting for Scouts to see seeds sprout and grow right in their terrarium.

Equipment

• Scissors

Materials

• 1 empty 2-liter plastic soda bottle
• Loose pebbles or small rocks
• Potting soil
• Small plants or seeds (something that won’t grow too big)
• Small decorations like stones or plastic critters (optional)

Instructions

1. Wash the soda bottle and remove the label.
2. Draw a line about 4 inches from the bottom of the bottle.
3. Cut off the bottom of the bottle along the line. (An adult should do this step.)
4. Place about 1 inch of pebbles in the bottom of the bottle.
5. Add about 2 inches of potting soil on top of the pebbles.
6. Plant seeds or small plants in the soil.
7. Add decorations if you have them.
8. Water the soil lightly until it is moist, but not soaked.
9. Slide the top part of the bottle back onto the bottom. You may need to gently squeeze the bottom to fit it together.
10. Place the terrarium in a sunny window.

Notes

• If the bottle gets too much condensation, remove the top for a little while to let it dry out.
• To water, just mist the plants when the soil looks dry.
• For a variation, try planting different types of seeds and observe which grows best.
• Always have an adult do the cutting step to avoid injury.

Click here for a printable copy of How to Make a Soda Bottle Terrarium

Crafts for Scouts

If you enjoyed making the Soda Bottle Terrarium, you can find more fun and simple crafts for Scouts on my website. These activities are great for teaching creativity, responsibility, and environmental awareness. Visit Scouter Mom – Crafts for Scouts for more project ideas that work well at meetings or at home. There’s something for every Scout!

Plant a Pizza Garden

Another fun way to get Scouts excited about gardening is by planting a pizza garden. Grow plants like tomatoes, basil, and peppers—the ingredients for a pizza! Scouts can care for the plants and then use the harvest to make their own pizza. It’s a great way to teach healthy eating, and they might be more willing to try new foods when they grow them. To learn how to plant your own pizza garden with your Scouts, visit Plant a Pizza Garden. It’s a tasty way to learn and have fun!

Crafting Connections: The Importance of Creative Projects in Scouting

How often should I water the Soda Bottle Terrarium?

Water lightly when the soil looks dry. If you see condensation on the inside of the bottle, it’s probably too wet. Remove the top for a little while to let it dry out.

What types of plants work best in a Soda Bottle Terrarium?

Small ferns, moss, and herbs like basil or parsley are good choices. These plants stay small and do well in a small space like the Soda Bottle Terrarium.

How much sunlight does a Soda Bottle Terrarium need?

Most terrarium plants do well in indirect sunlight. Place it near a window, but not in direct, hot sunlight.

Can I decorate my Soda Bottle Terrarium?

Yes! You can add small stones, plastic critters, or other decorations. Just make sure not to overcrowd the plants.

Do I need to use pebbles in the bottom of my Soda Bottle Terrarium?

Yes, the pebbles help with drainage. They keep the soil from getting too wet and protect the roots of your plants.

The Soda Bottle Terrarium is a fun and simple project for Cub Scouts. It teaches them about nature, plants, and the environment. By reusing a plastic bottle, Scouts learn how to reduce waste while creating something useful. This craft is a great way to start conversations about Earth Day and caring for the planet.

Building the terrarium is easy. Scouts fill the bottle with pebbles, soil, and small plants or seeds. They can even add decorations to make their terrarium unique. The best part is watching the plants grow and learning how to care for them over time.

Taking care of the terrarium teaches responsibility. Scouts can learn how to water their plants properly and observe how much sunlight they need. If the bottle gets too wet, they remove the top to let it dry out. Over time, this project helps them develop patience and an appreciation for nature.

Finally, the Soda Bottle Terrarium can be done with simple materials and a little guidance from leaders or parents. It’s a hands-on way for Scouts to learn, create, and explore the world of gardening.