It’s never too late to start your seeds. Usually, I stock up on seed items at Dollar General for 90% off the summer clearance sale. I will save containers from the year before too.
I’m frugal, still looking at everything in a new light. How can we reuse this? How can we make this last?
I planted more seeds this year because I have two gardens and how we grocery shop has changed.
I wanted to share some of the containers we use here on our homestead to start seeds this year.
If you haven’t started your seeds yet, you still have time. Here is my article on how to get started doing that step by step.
I tried the PBF Hard coffee this year- it is so good! Sweet, you can only have one at a time, but it’s a treat. I shared a few deals on it on Instagram and Facebook.
After browsing through Pinterest one night- because we were all at home, we were inspired by some artwork with beer bottles. So I told my husband I needed more containers for seeds.
Not sure what seeds to grow? Here are seven easy foods to increase.
He brought me these.
And they are working great.
What to Keep In Mind When Looking For Seed Starter Containers.
- Can you quickly get the plant out of it? If you put it in a glass jar, it will be hard to squeeze your plant out.
- How deep does your seed need to grow roots? For example, a larger seed needs an enormous container.
- Check every space in your home for ideas.
You can use many plastic sandwich containers. Egg shells are standard because you can plant the entire thing in the ground. These are good options if you start your seeds later.
I may have jumped the gun this year, but my excuse is Coronavirus.
People use cardboard egg cartons, but remember that only tiny seeds should go in there. You could even use toilet paper rolls.
Now is also a great time to start a compost pile. The soil will help nourish your plants year after year.
We also used up some paper cups that were out in the garage.
If you didn’t check out my seed starting article here- try to put your seeds in a south-facing window. And if your seedlings are looking crazy, don’t panic; read this.
More Frugal Tips to Start Seeds Indoors:
Reuse old plastic containers
Use leftover plastic garden containers you previously bought flowers in. Or save yours from this upcoming season to start seeds in.
Egg Cartons
Egg cartons are perfect for starting seeds. You can start them in the eggshells themselves or just use the carton. If you use the eggshells, rinse them out well and let them dry completely before using.
Labeling Is Important
Label your containers. I don’t think you will remember like I have done so many times in the past and then can’t!
Reuse Kids Yogurt Cups
Use Yoplait Kids Plastic Cups/ or any other item in your kitchen to start your seeds indoors.
Reuse Takeout Containers
Use Plastic Takeout containers. These are usually the perfect size for starting seeds. Just make sure to poke some drainage holes in the bottom.
Window Sill Planters
Use an old window sill planter. These often can be found at garage sales or thrift stores.
Plastic Wrap is Essential
Use Plastic wrap over your homemade containers until your seed sprouts to keep in the warmth.
Whatever you use, just ensure it gets plenty of sunlight and has good drainage. With a little bit of creativity, you can start your seeds indoors without breaking the bank.
Use the Right Soil
Use Seed Starting Soil Mix– it’s lighter. The other stuff may work, or it may not. Being frugal is not having to spend more money because we tried to save money and go the cheap route 😉
Watering Technique
Be careful with watering. You won’t need to water while you have the plastic wrap on. However, you will want to mist the plants because they are not as strong as they sprout.
After years of seeds and knowing I could quickly overwater, I put all my pots into a tray and then poured water into the bottom. So the plants take in the water from the bottom.
I use warm water to mix in with my seed-starting soil.
Seeds sprout best at 65 to 75°F (18 to 24°C).
You must keep only one plant in each pot. When I started, I thought it was a waste to kill off one plant when I had two perfectly growing. It is a must now. Just clip the others down. Keep the one that is the straightest and looks the best.
Enjoy! It is incredible to watch the whole process and enjoy the harvest!
You can watch my three-part seed starting series on Tiktok Below.
Items In Your Home:
- Beer cans
- Juice Containers from schools
- Plastic Containers from lunch meat
- Egg cartons
- Eggshells
- Toilet paper rolls
- Paper cups
- Plastic Takeout containers
- Milk Jugs- slice to cut an opening for more airflow
Starting seeds has been a blast this year, and I’m so grateful for the space to create a garden. Check out the The Best Cheap Shade Perennials
More Garden Tips:
Why It’s Important to Harden Off Seedlings
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