Plant life
Plants are extraordinary things - even weeds have astonishing secrets. Find out more with our expert views
Better latex than ever
How do you make a life-jacket out of kapok, rubber and the chemical process of vulcanisation? Find out more about rubber and vulcanisation.
Don't be lunch
Mosquito misery on holiday? Forget your repellent? Disaster? Not if you know how to make your own. Get the science to fight back against mosquitoes and malaria.
Far from shy
Can you really get enough oil from a coconut to power a lighthouse? See the incredible properties of vegetable oils.
Coconut science
Ellen has got a lovely bunch of coconuts - find out what science she'll make with them in the to the lighthouse video extra.
![Egret [Image: Mike Dodd Photography]](images/egret_progfront_2467.jpg)
Open mouths
Explore the place where fresh water meets the sea and discover the variety of estuary life.
Your growing supplies
From rosemary to latex, you can stock your lab from your garden - thanks to chemical plants.
Content last updated: 23/02/2006
