From the page: Plastic containers full of possibility
Idea 4
Seedlings in a mini greenhouse
A greenhouse is, at its core, a way to trick the weather: transparent plastic lets sunlight in but retains the heat and humidity that seeds need to germinate — the same effect as the glass greenhouses the Dutch perfected to grow flowers in the cold. A container with a transparent lid creates exactly that microclimate in miniature, perfect for anyone who wants to germinate seeds indoors.
What you need
- Transparent plastic container with lid (ice cream tubs work well)
- Soil or light substrate
- Seeds (lettuce, arugula, basil, tomato)
- Heated nail for piercing
How to make it
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1
Make 4 or 5 small holes in the bottom of the container with the heated nail, so excess water can escape and roots don't rot.
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2
Fill with moist soil up to two fingers from the rim — moist like a wrung-out sponge, not soaked.
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3
Spread the seeds, cover with a thin layer of soil and mist with water.
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4
Close the lid and place the container near a bright window, away from direct sun that would cook the seedlings.
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5
Open the lid a few minutes a day to exchange the air, and mist with water whenever the surface dries.
Finishing touches
When the seedlings have two true leaves, transplant them into larger containers — the same ice cream tub will serve as the permanent pot for herbs.
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