From the page: The plastic cup has a bright future
Idea 1
Germination greenhouse
Growers and gardeners have always used mini greenhouses to get seedlings started ahead of the right planting season. The moisture retained inside the cup creates a microclimate that keeps the seed from drying out before sprouting — the heat stays trapped and germination speeds up.
What you need
- 1 or 2 disposable cups (ideally one transparent)
- Soil or light substrate
- Seeds (lettuce, arugula, tomato, beans)
- Water in a spray bottle
- Scissors or a toothpick to pierce
How to make it
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1
Make 3 or 4 small holes in the bottom of the cup, because excess water needs to escape so the roots don't rot.
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2
Fill with soil almost to the rim, moisten with the spray bottle and bury the seeds at the depth indicated on the packet (general rule: twice the size of the seed).
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3
Cover the cup with a second cup turned upside down, forming a dome — if you only have one cup, use plastic wrap held with a rubber band.
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4
Leave it in a bright spot but out of direct sunlight, because inside the greenhouse strong sun would cook the little seeds.
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5
Open the lid a few minutes a day to refresh the air and spray water when the soil is drying to the touch.
Finishing touches
when the seedlings touch the "lid," it's time to transplant them into a larger pot. Write the seed name and the date on the side of the cup with a permanent marker to keep track of each variety.
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