From the page: The forgotten bottle deserves a new chapter
Idea 1
Mini seedling pot
Homemade seed beds have existed as long as plants have been cultivated: any deep container with holes becomes a seed nursery. It works because a young seedling needs little root space but plenty of constant moisture — and a small pot holds just enough water and warmth for germination to happen.
What you need
- Plastic medicine bottle (wider bottles work better than cylindrical ones)
- Scissors or a hot nail for making holes
- Light soil or ready-made potting mix
- Assorted seeds (mimosa, sunflower, beans, herbs)
- A saucer or plastic lid to hold the water
How to make it
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1
Wash the bottle well with soap and water and rinse thoroughly — medicine residue can harm the seed, so be thorough with the cleaning.
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2
Make 3 or 4 small holes in the bottom with a hot nail: they let excess water escape and prevent the root from rotting.
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3
Fill with light soil up to two fingers from the rim, without pressing — compacted soil makes it harder for new roots to grow.
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4
Place 2 to 3 seeds and cover with a thin layer of soil, about the thickness of the seed itself.
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5
Moisten with a sprayer or a gentle trickle of water and keep it in a bright spot, out of direct sun, until it sprouts.
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6
When the seedling has two true leaves, transplant it to a larger pot — the bottle was only ever the nursery.
Finishing touches
Look for syrup medicine bottles, which are larger and more stable; the lid becomes the saucer, making a complete little pot. Arranged on a tray, they form a lovely nursery of new sprouts.
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