Check the seed packet to help you figure out when to sow your seeds in your DIY pots.
At that point, they should bestrong enough to transplantinto your garden beds or porch pots.
Newspaper Pots
Finished with the Sunday paper?
Credit: Blaine Moats
Now it’s possible for you to turn it intohandy little potsfor your seeds.
Step 2: Soak Newspaper
Submerge the newspaper in a shallow pan of water until moistened.
Step 3: Shape Pots
Roll the softened paper around the jar.
Extend the bottom edge of the paper enough to fold and form the pot’s bottom.
Crimp and press the paper around the bottom of the jar.
Flatten the bottom by pressing it on a flat surface and set aside to dry.
Carefully slide the paper pot off the jar once dry.
Place the seed in the hole and cover it with soil.
Spritz the pots with enough water to completely moisten the soil.
Step 2: Make Dividers
Use the remaining cut pieces to create dividers as needed.
Create a shallow hole in the soil with your finger or the end of a pencil in each section.
Add a seed to the holes and cover them with soil.
Spritz the homemade seedling tray with water until the soil is completely moistened.
Just make a few snips, fold in one end, and you’re done.
Step 1: Cut Tube
Cut the paper towel tube into three-inch sections.
Step 2: Fold Flaps
Fold in each flap to close one end of the tube section.
It’s okay if there is a small gap between the flapsit will help with drainage.
Fill your new tube pots with seed starting mix.
Place a seed in the hole and cover it with soil.
Spritz the soil in each pot with water until it is completely moistened.
Papier-Mache Pots
A little heat helps make these DIY containers extra sturdy.
Step 1: Blend Paper Shreds
Fill your blender with shredded paper and completely cover with water.
Let the shredded paper sit in the water for five minutes to soften.
Blend until the paper has a smooth consistency.
Start heating your oven to 200 degrees.
Step 2: Strain Paper Mixture
Pour the blended paper into a mesh strainer over a bowl.
Press the paper in the strainer with a sponge until the paper mixture has a wet clay-like consistency.
Use your hands to combine the flour and paper until you have an even consistency.
Repeat until you use up all the mix.
Step 4: Dry Pots
Bake in the oven for one hour.
Once the pots are cool, remove them from the muffin pan and place on a cooling rack.
Allow to finish drying overnight.
Step 5: Plant Seeds
Fill your papier-mache pots with seed starting mix.
Place a seed in the holes and cover it with soil.
Spritz the pots with water until the soil is completely moistened.
