How to Build Your Own Seed Trays
Although you can purchase seedlings in your local nursery for spring planting, many gardeners prefer to start their own plants from seed in late winter in preparation for the summer garden. Not only is this an inexpensive alternative to purchasing seedlings, it allows you to grow difficult-to-find flowers and vegetables. Typically, seeds are started either directly in individual pots or in flats or trays filled with seed starter. Making your own seed starting trays eliminates the cost of commercial trays -- and they function just as well. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Recycled containers
- Scissors
- Dish detergent
- Bleach
- Nail or awl
- Seed starter
Instructions
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1
Collect disposable containers such as milk cartons or meat and vegetables trays from the deli. Choose containers that are long and flat with a depth of 1 or 2 inches for best results. Cut larger containers to a height of 2 inches with a pair of sharp scissors.
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2
Wash and dry the containers in soapy dish water to remove any food residue or other contaminants.
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3
Sterilize the containers by submerging them in a bleach solution of one part bleach to nine parts water for 30 minutes.
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4
Allow the containers to air dry.
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5
Puncture several drainage holes in the bottom of the container with a nail or awl. The number of holes depends on the size of the tray. One hole every 3 to 4 inches is sufficient.
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6
Fill the seed starting tray with moist seed starter. Plant seeds following the recommended seed depth on the back of the seed packet.
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Tips & Warnings
Always follow the recommendations on the seed packet when germinating seeds. Most seeds require light to germinate, but some require darkness.
Place the seed starting tray on the top of a water heater or other appliance that provides slow, steady heat to speed germination.
References
- Photo Credit David Oldfield/Digital Vision/Getty Images
