How to Make a Chia Planter

Chia is a variety of fast growing grass that germinates quickly in moist conditions and forms thin, hair-like blades. It is most commonly known for growing in the popular Chia Pets which come in a variety of shaped planters, but the seeds and the blades are also edible. You can make your own planter for chia seeds and grow them at home using basic supplies. Grow chia seeds with kids to give them a quick and easy introduction to gardening.

Yogurt cups or other plastic cups
Utility knife
Knee-high hose
Chia seeds
Potting soil
Scissors
Decorative container
Water

Instructions

- 1
  Place a clean yogurt cup on a table and cut the bottom out of it using a utility knife.
- 2
  Hold open a single knee-high hose and insert the yogurt cup inside the top of hose to hold it open and act as a funnel. Do this carefully so that you don’t snag the hose or tear a hole in the material.
- 3
  Place 1 to 2 teaspoons of chia seeds into the center of the yogurt cup and shake them down to the bottom toe of the hose. Then, pour 1 cup of potting soil through the yogurt cup and shake it down into the toe of the hose as well.
- 4
  Pull the yogurt cup gently out of the hose top, leaving the soil and seeds in place. Gather the top portion of the hose together with your hand, pulling it tight over the soil ball. Tie the hose in a knot to secure the soil and then cut off the excess hose 1 inch above the knot using scissors.
- 5
  Place a decorative container of the same size as the yogurt cup in a window sill and fill it with water to within 1/4 or 1/2 inch from the top.
- 6
  Turn the hose ball so that the knot faces downward and insert it into the top of the water. Make sure that the very bottom portion of the hose ball rests in the water by at least 1/4 inch so it can soak up water.
- 7
  Add more water to the cup every two to three days to ensure the hose always remains wet. The chia seeds in the planter should germinate in approximately five days.

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