Use this symbol-based guide to support understanding:
Download Widgit guide (111kB)

Preparation

• Collect milk bottles - 1 pint bottles are great for smaller children and 2 or 4 pint bottles for older children or adults
• Wash out milk bottles well and remove labels

Equipment

• Empty plastic milk bottles with lids – 1, 2 or 4 pint sizes
• Wooden board
• Hammer
• Nails (size will be dependent on how fine you want your spray)
• Permanent marker pens

1. Make sure the milk bottle has been washed thoroughly with hot, soapy water to get rid of any milk and the milky smell 
2. Place the lid onto a wooden board and use a hammer and nail to make holes in the lid (teacher support may be required when working with younger pupils). Smaller nails will create smaller holes for a finer spray
3. Pop one small hole in the handle of the bottle to allow air to get in. This will help the water flow
4. Make sure the outside of the bottle is completely dry, then decorate the bottle with permanent pens
5. Fill the bottle with water and replace the lid

• Different sized nails will produce varying sized holes e.g. smaller nails will create a finer spray which is ideal for seeds and seedlings. Larger holes can be used to water more established plants
• Explore our top tips on watering your plants effectively and also our tips on how to conserve water in your garden
• Safety tip - Teaching staff supervision and guidance will be needed on using tools safely