This cold weather streak may have you think that spring and summer are a faraway dream, but they will be here in only a few short months! And many gardeners start their seedlings indoors this time of year, so they are strong enough to go in the ground after the last frost.
For those who sorting their seeds and preparing to get started – here are some ideas for how you can do it all in a more recycling -friendly way.
Reuse from last year
One of the “Rs” in the waste diversion process is reuse! Obviously, the more you can save your seedling containers from year to year, the less waste you are producing. Before you find new containers for your planting, do an inventory of what you have on hand. Ask your friends and family if they have any extras sitting in their garages or sheds. Even stop by the thrift stores to see what they have!
Compostable containers
What better way to prevent waste than to plant your seeds into something that can go right in the ground with them when they are ready? While there are options to purchase compostable seedling containers, there are easy DIY options at home that can help you divert some of your trash from your bins!
- Toilet paper rolls (or you can also cut paper towel rolls to shorten them) – the thin cardboard these are made of are not only compostable, but the open bottom allows opportunities for roots to spread once planted in the ground. Simply put these on a tray to collect the excess liquid as you water your seedlings.
- Rolled up newspaper – using your folding skills (look online for tutorials if needed), create seedling tubes the same size and shape as toilet paper rolls
- Egg shells – yes, if you are skilled at cracking eggs in a way that can leave at last of the shell intact, you can put a little dirt in the shell and plant your seedling in them. Once your sprouts are ready to transfer to a larger container, the egg shell can go right with them. Not only are they compostable, but they provide extra nutrients for your plants!
- Egg cartons – certain kinds of egg cartons are compostable, so you can fill the empty spaces with dirt and your seeds and then just cut them apart when it’s time to move to a larger container.
Recycled containers
Seedlings can be planted in a number of materials that would otherwise be headed toward the trash or recycling bin. Why not put them to a second use first rather than buying new seedling containers at the store? Here are some ideas:
- Plastic bottles – cut them in half and use the bottom part for a cute planter for your seedlings.
- Paper cups (not wax-lined) – these are designed to hold liquid, so will hold up to your watering!
- Milk jugs – this is a unique way to grow your seedlings outdoors, even in the winter! You can make a mini-greenhouse out of washed milk jugs. Drill holes in the bottom. Cut milk jug in half, and fill the bottom half with potting soil. Plant your seeds. Put the top half back on and duct tape the jug back together. This allows the warmth of the sun to get to your plants, but not the cold of the air and the ground! (Look online for more instructions and examples.
With all of these options, please make sure to create holes in the bottom for drainage! Happy planting and thanks for doing your part to reduce, reuse and recycle.