Get A Free Greenhouse

Starting seeds indoors during February makes spring arrive more quickly for me. The smell of fresh potting soil tricks my senses into believing that gardening season has begun. Checking daily for the tiny green sprouts to emerge helps pass the time and gives me something to look forward to.









I have found a way to feel a little “greener” by using a recycled container as a mini greenhouse. Last year, I read the inside label of my plastic egg carton while waiting for an omelet to cook. A cute picture and a quick snip-it described how to use the egg carton to grow seeds. I tried it immediately and it worked like a charm. The individual egg capsules have a rounded top and bottom that provide the perfect level of moisture retention. Since then, I buy eggs in the plastic packs and save them in my basement. I should have enough recycled greenhouses to start all my seeds in this year, both annual and vegetable.

To make a recycled greenhouse, fill the base of each plastic egg carton with seed starter mix. Water the soil thoroughly. Press a seed into the dirt of each cup. Close the lid, place in a sunny window and watch your garden grow. Water once or twice a week before the soil gets dry. Seedlings are like any other kind of baby; they need constant hydration to flourish. Water gently however. A harsh pour displaces seeds and new roots. I find that heavily misting the open roof of the greenhouse helps keep tender seedlings in place. After the roof is closed, the water slowly beads off, soaking deep into the soil like drip irrigation.

The seedlings will eventually reach the roof of the greenhouse. Keep the roof open once the tallest near the top. Then water traditionally, straight into the soil. Move each plant into its own pot when they seem sturdy and have several true leaves. “True leaves” grow after the first two seedling leaves and often look different. A soup spoon works perfectly to lift each plant from its pod. After using the egg cartons, wash them out and either use them again or place them in the plastic recycling.

Take at least a week to “harden off” young plants once the weather warms. Place the plants outdoors in the shade for a little longer everyday, starting with 20 minutes at midday. End the week by placing the plants in the morning sun, in addition to the shade, for the last few days. A good rule of thumb is to wait until Memorial Day to plant outside permanently, to be sure all frost has passed. Give it a whirl. Save money on seed starting kits and bring spring to your house a little earlier.