DIY Project

Garden

Test tube propagation station

A wood stand holding glass tubes where pothos and plant cuttings grow roots right on your desk.

Test tube propagation station
LevelAdvanced
AgesAges 13 and up
Time2 hours plus drying
Cost$18 to $30

What you'll need

Materials

Tick them off as you find them.

Tools

How to make it

Safety

Power drills are grown-up steps, so clamp the wood and wear safety glasses.

  1. Step 1: Plan the holes
    1

    Plan the holes

    Mark 3 tube holes evenly along a scrap strip that will be the top bar. Mark dowel holes on the base 1 in from each end.

  2. Step 2: Cut the top bar
    2

    Cut the top bar

    Saw a 2 in wide strip off the board's length. The rest is your base.

  3. Step 3: Drill the tube holes
    3

    Drill the tube holes

    Grown-up step: clamp the bar and drill each 1 in hole straight through.

  4. Step 4: Drill the dowel holes
    4

    Drill the dowel holes

    Grown-up step: drill 1/2 in holes, 1/2 in deep, in the base and the ends of the top bar.

  5. Step 5: Glue the frame
    5

    Glue the frame

    Glue dowels into the base, then press the bar on top. Clamp overnight.

  6. Step 6: Finish the wood
    6

    Finish the wood

    Sand and oil it. Wait until dry.

  7. Step 7: Add the cuttings
    7

    Add the cuttings

    Drop in the tubes. Fill with water and add cuttings with at least 1 node under water.

Edie's tip

Change the water every week. Clear water keeps roots happy.

Written by the DIY Project team. How we check · Report a mistake

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