Building an outdoor plant box with a slime mold computer is a fascinating fusion of gardening and unconventional computing. Slime molds, like *Physarum polycephalum*, exhibit problem-solving behaviors, making them ideal for simple bio-computing tasks. Here’s how to create your own:

Materials Needed:

- Wooden planks (cedar or redwood for durability)

- Nails/screws and a drill

- Soil and plants of your choice

- Agar plates or petri dishes

- *Physarum polycephalum* culture

- Oat flakes (food for slime mold)

- Moisture-resistant sealant

Step 1: Construct the Plant Box

Build a sturdy wooden box with drainage holes. Ensure it’s large enough to hold plants while leaving space for the slime mold compartment.

Step 2: Set Up the Slime Mold Computer

In a separate, shaded section of the box, place agar plates or petri dishes. Introduce the slime mold and oat flakes in a maze-like pattern. The mold will grow and form efficient networks, acting as a living circuit.

Step 3: Integrate Sensors (Optional)

For advanced functionality, connect moisture or light sensors to the slime mold’s growth patterns. The mold’s reactions can trigger alerts for plant care.

Step 4: Maintain the System

Keep the slime mold hydrated and fed. Prune plant roots to avoid interference. Over time, observe how the mold adapts to environmental changes.

This project blends nature and technology, offering a sustainable way to explore bio-computing while enhancing your garden’s functionality. Experiment with different designs to optimize your slime mold’s problem-solving potential!