From the page: The plastic cup has a bright future
Idea 3
Stackable seed tray
Before plastic nursery trays, smallholders and home gardens germinated seeds in individual pots, one next to the other, to protect each seedling in the first weeks. The plastic cup works the same way: the smooth wall retains substrate moisture and the tall shape teaches the root to grow downward, forming stronger seedlings before transplanting.
What you need
- 4 to 10 clean, dry disposable cups
- Sifted soil or ready-made substrate
- Seeds (lettuce, tomato, herbs, sunflower)
- Scissors or a hot nail to pierce the bottom
- A plate or tray to hold the water
How to make it
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1
Make 3 or 4 holes in the bottom of each cup with the scissors or hot nail — without drainage, water accumulates and rots the root.
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2
Fill each cup with moist soil up to two fingers from the rim and press down lightly with your finger, so the seed makes good contact with the substrate.
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3
Plant the seeds at the depth indicated on the packet (simple rule: the depth is usually twice the size of the seed).
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4
Water with a spray bottle or little by little, just to moisten — a strong jet unearths the seed.
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5
Place the cups in a warm, bright spot but without strong direct sun until germination, keeping the soil always moist.
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6
When the seedling has two true leaves, cut a slit in the side of the cup or transplant it with the entire root ball to its final spot.
Finishing touches
Stack the empty cups inside one another and store them for the next planting — they last for several growing seasons. Write the seed name and the date on the wall of the cup with a permanent marker so you don't get lost in the nursery.
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