How to Grow Beautiful Crystals With Epsom Salt

A basic sodium crystal

Learn about the formation of crystals by growing a garden of beautiful salt crystals. Using Epson salt results in spiky crystals; table salt is a different chemical compound, so the crystals look different. Crystals can be grown in their natural color or you can add food coloring for a nice effect. This project is best done on a sunny day. The finished crystals are not safe to eat.

Things You'll Need

• Epsom salt
• Boiling water
• Pie plate
• Food coloring (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Combine 2 parts hot water to 1 part Epsom salts. For example, if you use 1 cup of water, you need 1/2 cup of Epsom salts. Stir until the salt is dissolved.

2. Add food coloring, if desired. Tint the mixture a little darker than the color you want since it will lighten up when the crystals grow.

3. Transfer the mixture into a shallow container, a disposable pie plate or paper bowl would be optimal for this.

4. Place the container outside in the sun. If it is raining or overcast, put the bowl inside somewhere warm so the water can evaporate.

Tips & Warnings

• Try playing with different color mixtures.

• Do not consume the crystals.

References

• Exploratorium: Crystal Creations
• Yes Mag; Easy Epsom Salts Crystals; April 2003