1. Instructions • Copy each slide onto a separate “page” in your foldable.

2. Wisconsin Fast Plants Sprouting Up All Over Lesson 5

3. The Basics • These plants are not found in the wild • They were first developed at the University of Wisconsin in the 1970’s • They have become important research plants in real science labs, school science labs, and space!

4. Why Fast Plants are Special • They go through their entire life cycle in 6 weeks (super fast for a plant) • Also small enough to comfortably use in a classroom or space ship • They actually grow best when crowded, so you can plant a lot in a little space • Produce a large amount of fertile seeds which is good when you have no money (like teachers) • Grow under constant light – all other plants must have some darkness to finish the photosynthesis process

5. Not a naturally occurring plant • These plants were developed to be quick growing and small • Dr. Williams started out with 2000 species of Brassica plants • SELECTIVE BREEDING IN ACTION • Dr. Williams then selected the plants he wanted and let them breed

6. The Dirty Details • In order to breed only selected plants, Dr. Williams had to do the pollinating (no bees needed) • The group of scientists had to pick up pollen from the plants they liked, and cross it on other plants they liked • This is called CROSS-POLLINATION

7. Why Cabbage??? • Your Brassica rapa is a member of the Crucifer plant family • Also included in this family • Other cabbages • Cauliflower • Brussels sprouts • They are all easy to breed and grow • They are inexpensive food sources for a growing world population

8. Space Food and Filters • May 1997 – the space shuttle Atlantis delivers Fast Plants to the Russian space station MIR • In microgravity, the astronauts grew and cross pollinated plants just like you are doing on Earth • During extensive space trips, Fast Plants can provide • Food • Clean air filtering • Oxygen