Expert: Walter Hintz - 10/7/2009

Question
Hi, I am a highschooler having to do a project about pinto beans. This project is pretty free base besides is that you have to use pinto beans, some type of substance (like dirt), and at least use H2O. I wonder what kind of ideas I could use beside some of the regular ones like dark and light, different amounts of water, different types of soil, different types of containers, and different types of liquids. These are the usual ideas. I want something different and interesting. Can you please help me?
-Maggie

Answer
Hi Maggie; Years ago in my high school biology classes I had students who experimented with plant hormones or auxins. You might look into this. There is a chemical called Superthrive that you can get for 5 or 6 dollars.  Gibberellins are also available.  Google plant hormones or auxins. Gibberellins affect germination rates. You can also buy plant hormones at any Garden store. Consider subjecting the beans to hormones.  If you wish help with your experimental design I would be glad to do so. Contract me at my email address waltjh@sbcglobal.net