Seed Starting Hack.
This is the time of year where many of us gardeners find ourselves knee deep in seed catalogs. After all, who can resist the lure of growing your own (unusual) plant material? Not me.
There are some great seed catalogs out there. I especially love Annie’s Heirloom Seeds, Prairie Moon Nursery, Baker Creek, Select Seeds, Hudson Valley and Renee’s Garden Seeds. These beautiful catalogs are as irresistible to me as hosta are to deer. I spend hours drooling over the glorious pictures dreaming about what I will grow. However, I prefer to spend my money on the actual seeds and plants rather than all the paraphernalia that comes with growing them. Rather than buy the little grow kits with domed lids let me share a seed starting hack. It involves using something you already have – toilet paper. I assume you do use toilet paper?
Start by saving your empty rolls. Next make a series of 1 to 1 1/2-inch cuts around one end of the roll, approximately a half an inch apart, which you will then fold into the center of the roll to create your bottom. If they are wobbly you can put them in a hard-sided container, or simply tie the rolls together with twine for stability. Finally fill with seed starting mix and plant. Water according to planting instructions and when it is time to transplant into the garden you can drop the whole thing in! Just make sure none of the roll extends above the soil surface as it will wick water from the roots of the plants. The cardboard will break down so it has the benefits of peat pots but is more environmentally friendly.
If you prefer to start seeds in a reusable container K-cups (the coffee used in Keurig makers) are perfect. They are just the right size and even have a hole in the bottom for drainage.
By starting seeds with something you already have you have saved money. And with that $19.99 you can buy more seeds! You’re welcome.
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