Req 7b — Plant Science as a Hobby
Plant science is not just a career path — for millions of people it is a deeply satisfying way to spend free time, grow food, create beauty, and connect with the natural world. This option asks you to pick a plant-based hobby that genuinely interests you and research it well enough to talk about it with your counselor.
Hobby Ideas to Consider
You are not limited to this list, but these are common starting points for plant-science hobbyists:
Home vegetable gardening — Growing your own food is one of the most practical applications of everything in this badge: soil prep, propagation, pest management, and plant selection all apply. A 4×8-foot raised bed costs roughly $50–150 to build and fill.
Native plant gardening — Designing a landscape with native wildflowers, grasses, and shrubs supports local pollinators and requires less water and maintenance than traditional lawns. Organizations like the Native Plant Society of your state provide free plant lists, workshops, and seed swaps.
Bonsai — The art of growing miniature trees in containers. Bonsai blends horticulture, artistic design, and patient observation. Starter trees and basic tools run $30–80; advanced trees and pots can cost hundreds of dollars. The National Bonsai and Penjing Museum in Washington, D.C. and local bonsai clubs are excellent resources.
Beekeeping — Beekeepers work directly with one of the most important pollinators on earth. A starter hive, protective equipment, and first-year supplies typically cost $300–600. Most states require registration with the state department of agriculture. The American Beekeeping Federation and local beekeeping associations offer beginner courses and mentorship.
Fairy gardening / miniature gardens — Creating small-scale planted landscapes in containers or garden beds. Low startup cost ($20–50), highly creative, and a good introduction to container horticulture and plant selection.
Foraging — Learning to identify and harvest wild edible and medicinal plants. Requires strong plant identification skills (directly from this badge) and knowledge of local regulations. Local foraging guides, herbalist organizations, and nature centers often offer guided walks.
What to Research
The requirement is specific. Your counselor discussion should cover:
Research Checklist
Cover these points before your counselor discussion
- What is the hobby and why does it appeal to you?
- What skills or knowledge would you need to get started? Is any formal training available?
- What would it cost to begin? What are ongoing annual expenses?
- What organizations, clubs, or online communities support this hobby?
- What is your short-term goal — something you could accomplish in the next 3–6 months?
- What is a realistic long-term goal — something you would like to achieve over several years?
- How does the hobby connect to what you learned in this merit badge?
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Goals
Your counselor will ask about both. Here are some examples to get you thinking:
| Hobby | Short-Term Goal (3–6 months) | Long-Term Goal (2–5 years) |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetable garden | Grow tomatoes, peppers, and basil from seed | Produce at least 25% of family’s summer vegetables |
| Native plant garden | Plant a 4×4-foot pollinator patch with 3 species | Replace the front lawn with a certified wildlife habitat |
| Bonsai | Style one juniper into a basic upright form | Develop a 10-year-old tree with established nebari |
| Beekeeping | Complete a beginner course and join a local club | Manage two thriving hives and harvest honey |
| Foraging | Confidently identify 10 local edible plants | Lead a guided foraging walk for friends or family |
🎬 Video: Fairy Gardens — https://youtu.be/ZuQ6SvmYjtw?si=WVlIAlraQrSiwYHj
🎬 Video: Bonsai Tree Hobby — https://youtu.be/ztx0fMF2rAA?si=08-Ef4YnEJsPHhvF
🎬 Video: Common Reasons for Keeping Honey Bees — https://youtu.be/DUM3o2b7NUA?si=1aXCsEnClarmfKpK
With Requirement 7 complete, you are ready for the major hands-on portion of this badge.