Creating a Seed Starter Pot Out of Newspaper

I found a cool video to watch that teaches how to make starter pots for seeds out of newspaper that is well put together and includes simple  six step-by-step instructions. I'm certainly going to try them this year, since I know I'm going to be starting those new variety of tomatoes from seed. Plus it's great when newspapers can be used and reused!


All you need is black and white print newspaper, a straight sided glass or jar, soil and seeds. You'll note that in the video, the presenter suggests using a full sheet of newspaper. I think that makes for a very sturdy pot, but a half a sheet is just as good for purposes of starting seedlings, and the newspaper will break down much quicker in the ground.

Speaking of the pot in the ground, when you watch the video, you'll note that it's recommended that you take the newspaper off before planting. I personally don't think that's a good idea, because no matter how careful you are, the delicate roots of the seedling are going to be disturbed by the removal. Instead, I recommend a good soaking of the root ball/newspaper pot, then carefully poking through the newspaper at 1/4 inch intervals around the pot and then planting the whole thing.

And when you plant your seedlings, remember to use organic compost mixed into the garden soil for the nutrients the plants need, and the water retaining properties of the amended soil.  The nutrients will be in slow release mode and will continue to nourish your seedlings as they develop.  The compost will reduce the need to water by helping the soil naturally retain the moisture in the soil.

So here's the link for this how-to video: ehow.com seed starting newspaper pots
 
Happy Composting!