In this FACTivity, you will compare and contrast sterilized potting soil with soil samples taken from the woods, a garden, or a yard or field. As an extension activity, you will plant a house plant in each of the different soil samples and compare and contrast how they grow. Materials: Sterilized potting soil (from a gardening store) Soil samples from other areas House plants ( optional ) Topics: Compare and Contrast, Experiment, Hands-on, Observation, Outdoor Activity, Soil, Soil Sample.