Ground after the rain

The plants, to grow well, need water and sunlight. Thus, they fall asleep in the winter, only to regain vital forces in the spring. Remember that they absorb the water not directly from the rain but through their roots, hidden in the ground, together with the essential mineral substances. What is more, the roots respire as well! The soil needs to be well-hydrated, loosened, and enriched with nutritious substances for the plants to be healthy and grow. Proper soil is like a sponge: it absorbs water and breathes. If the soil is dry, it becomes hard and poorly absorbs water.

We recommend taking a walk after rain and becoming a little explorer!

• Small shovel
• Soil sample

Perform this task under the guidance of a teacher or a parent. Conducting the experiment after the rain will yield the best results. Take a small shovel, push it forcefully into the soil in a garden or a park, rotate it, and carefully pull it out along with the soil sample.

Now, begin examining the soil. Observe and touch it. Does it feel loose and spongy, or is it compact? Is it dry or moist? What does it consist of? Can you see any living organisms?

Once the experiment is complete, place the soil back into the ground and smooth the surface with the shovel so that no hole remains. Then, wash your hands thoroughly with water and soap.

This post was created in collaboration with Fundacja Veolia Polska and Fundacja CultureLab under the honorary patronage of the City of Warsaw.