Raise your hand if you throw away plastic berry containers after eating berries. Look around now, because you are not alone. This EPA It is reported that in 2018, consumers disposed of about 14.5 million tons of waste plastic containers, and that does not include trash bags or single-service plates and cups. If you think all the plastic you put in the recycling bin is actually recycled, think again. A little over 10 million of those 14.5 million tons ended up in landfills, which means that’s probably where your discarded berry containers are. If it makes good ecological sense for you to find a way to use these containers instead of throwing them out, here’s an idea: turn them into seed starters.
Berry containers are ideal for starting seeds. They have lids you can close to provide a humidity-controlled environment for germination, are made of clear plastic that lets light in, and are the perfect size to store on a shelf or windowsill. Some of them also have drainage holes, and if you have a container that doesn’t, you can easily make the holes yourself with a knife. This type of container is best for starters that don’t need a lot of space, such as herbs, onions and certain types of flowers, which will later be transplanted into the garden. Works well for that too Growing beds of nutrient-rich microgreensLike broccoli, radish, sunflower, arugula and many others.
How to start seeds in plastic fruit containers
If you are a beginner Germination and planting of vegetable seedsThe first thing you need is a growing medium. A seed-starting soil mix (sometimes called a “soilless” mix, because it includes organic materials such as peat and coconut coir) is recommended. Unlike your garden soil, it is completely sterile with no fungi or pathogens to inhibit germination. Place a paper towel in the bottom of the container, fill the container almost to the top with the starting mixture, then bring it to the sink, wet the mixture and let the excess water drain through the holes in the container.
You can sow small seeds for microgreens by just sprinkling them on the substrate and covering them with more starter mix, but larger seeds, like peas, need to be deeper, so it’s better to poke holes in the soil with a pencil for them. Always check the seed package for planting instructions. Now close the cover and place the container in a sunny place. When the sprouts come out, you no longer need humidity control, so you can open the cover, but do not let the soil dry out.
Timing is important when transplanting into the garden, because if they get too big before it’s warm enough to grow outside, they won’t be healthy. The best time to plant vegetables depends on your climate zone and type of vegetable, so check this out A seasonal guide to when to plant vegetables.
