How to Make Upcycled Planting Containers

Note: Help your child identify which household items may be used. Assist in cutting containers to size if needed.

Want to plant, but not sure what container to use to get started? Your local garden center will have plastic seedling trays available for purchase, but you don’t need these to start seeds at home – we will show you several creative ways to use everyday household items to plant.

Supplies: 

  • Choose a container to upcycle:

    • Yogurt cup, milk carton, egg carton, paper towel roll, toilet paper towel roll, or other containers that can be easily cut. 

  • Scissors 

Instructions:

  1. Clean your containers:

    • If you’re repurposing plastic containers, clean and dry them first. 
      If you’re using cardboard containers, wipe them down with a dry cloth.

  2. Cut tall containers down to size:

    • You won’t need a very deep container for starting seeds that you will transplant later (2-4 inches in depth is perfect). 

    • Planning to use your planters to grow mature plants? Our container planting guide will determine what size is most appropriate for different types of plants.

  3. Create drainage:

    • If your container has a solid bottom (like a milk carton or yogurt container), use your scissors to cut small holes to allow water to drain from the soil.

    • If you’re using a paper towel roll or something that doesn’t have a bottom, find a shallow container to store them to keep the soil and seeds in place (a berry container, loaf pan, or plastic storage container all work great.)

Bonus:

  • Make plant markers for the crops you’re planning to plant in your upcycled containers. Challenge your kiddos to find, repurpose, and decorate different items around the house for this- popsicle sticks, painted rocks, or clothespins are all easy to use.

 
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Seed Starting Guide

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How to Water Like a Pro and Make Your Own Watering Container