From the page: The Tetra Pak gives much more than it seems
Idea 2
Seedling germinator
Homemade germinators are the technique of every gardener who starts from scratch: a mini greenhouse that holds moisture and warmth around the seed. Tetra Pak is perfect for this because its inner layers of plastic and aluminum retain moisture far better than paper or wood.
What you need
- Small Tetra Pak cartons (200 ml to 1 liter)
- Scissors or craft knife
- Light soil (seeding substrate, if you have it)
- Seeds (lettuce, tomato, arugula, sunflower)
- A deep container to rest on (if making a greenhouse)
How to make it
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1
Cut the carton lying down, opening a long "window" on one of the side faces, leaving about 3 centimeters of edge at the bottom — that cavity becomes the seed's nursery.
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2
Make 3 or 4 small holes in the bottom with the tip of the scissors — drainage keeps the seed from rotting in standing water.
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3
Fill with light soil almost to the edge, without pressing too much, because newborn roots need fluffy soil to push through.
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4
Sow 2 to 3 seeds per carton, covering with a thin layer of soil (the rule is to bury at most twice the size of the seed).
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5
Moisten with a spray bottle or a watering can with fine holes, taking care not to dig everything up.
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6
For a greenhouse effect, rest it inside a deep container and cover with punctured clear plastic, removing it when the sprouts appear — the warmth and moisture speed up germination.
Finishing touches
When the little seedling has two true leaves, transplant it straight into the self-watering planter — the carton can even go along, as it decays slowly. Write the seed's name on the carton with a pen so you don't lose track.
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