Growing Your Own Seedlings

For the seedlings to grow in cold weather, the milk jug halves will need to be reattached.  Duct tape can be used to do this, but if you don't have any there are other ways to do so. Another way is to make a hole on each half with a hole punch.  Fill the bottom half of the jug with potting soil. Space your seeds out throughout the dirt. It is okay to add a few extra, because not all of the seeds will sprout.  To prepare the plastic milk jug, cut almost all the way around about 2/3 of the way down leaving part of the jug still attached.  There should be about 3 inches on the bottom half of the jug to hold the dirt. View the list »
Recycled milk jugs make the perfect containers when  starting to grow  your own seedlings.  Plastic containers work the best because they help insulate the seedlings when it is chilly outside. 

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Even though the weather does not seem to know it is spring in most of the country, it is still the perfect time to start seedlings for a spring/summer garden. You can find seeds at most major retail stores, home stores, and even discount stores like the dollar store. By staring your seedlings now, they will be garden ready when it is warm enough to plant.

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  • Recycled milk jugs make the perfect containers when  starting to grow  your own seedlings.  Plastic containers work the best because they help insulate the seedlings when it is chilly outside. 
  • To prepare the plastic milk jug, cut almost all the way around about 2/3 of the way down leaving part of the jug still attached.  There should be about 3 inches on the bottom half of the jug to hold the dirt. 
  • Fill the bottom half of the jug with potting soil. Space your seeds out throughout the dirt. It is okay to add a few extra, because not all of the seeds will sprout.  
  • For the seedlings to grow in cold weather, the milk jug halves will need to be reattached.  Duct tape can be used to do this, but if you don't have any there are other ways to do so. Another way is to make a hole on each half with a hole punch.  
  • Close the milk jug, and thread a twist tie or garden wire into the holes.  Make sure to secure it tightly, so the container will not separate on a windy day. 
  • Use a Sharpie marker and write the type of seeds inside. The writing  might fade a bit, so place in a spot that might not be as exposed to the elements.  Place the containers in a sunny spot. 
  • The milk jugs work like terrariums to make the seedlings grow even when it is chilly.  The seedlings will be ready to plant in the garden in about eight weeks.  When the weather is warm enough, the tops can be opened. While they could be detached, it is best to wait so you can recover the plants in case of frost.  
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, Livingston County Frugal Family Examiner

Pamela Maxwell is the mom of three school age children. She is always for looking for frugal ways to save money, while spending time with her busy family. She also has a passion for planning children's parties on a budget. Since she enjoys sharing her ideas with others, it lead her to...

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