Turn an empty milk jug into a mini greenhouse—a surprisingly simple and budget-friendly way to kickstart your garden and protect delicate seedlings from chilly spring weather. Here's how:
1. Prepare the Jug:
Rinse out an empty gallon milk jug and cut it horizontally around the middle, leaving a small hinge near the handle.
2. Add Soil:
Fill the bottom half of the jug with 2-3 inches of moist potting soil.
3. Plant Seeds:
Sow your seeds according to the packet instructions, gently pressing them into the soil.
4. Create a Greenhouse Effect:
Tape the jug back together and leave the cap off for ventilation.
5. Place Outside:
Set the jug in a sunny, sheltered spot outdoors. The jug traps warmth and moisture, helping seeds germinate even in cooler temperatures.
6. Monitor and Transplant:
Once seedlings emerge and grow strong, transplant them into your garden after the last frost.
Starting seeds using a milk jug is a simple, budget-friendly way to get a head start on your garden while extending the growing season and increasing seedling survival rates. With just a few household items, you can create a mini greenhouse that protects and nurtures your plants. Give this easy method a try and enjoy a thriving garden from the ground up!