DIY Newspaper Pots for Seed Starting/Cuttings: A Sustainable Gardening Guide

Gardening is not just a hobby; it’s a way of life that connects us to the earth and teaches us patience, care, and the importance of sustainability. One of the most satisfying aspects of gardening is starting your plants from seeds or cuttings. It’s economical, rewarding, and allows for a greater connection with your plants. However, the cost and environmental impact of purchasing new plastic pots every season can dampen this joy. That’s where DIY newspaper pots come in – an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and fun way to start your seeds or root your cuttings. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to make and use your own newspaper pots.

Why Newspaper Pots?

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Newspaper pots have several benefits over traditional plastic pots:

• Eco-friendly — They are made from biodegradable materials, reducing plastic waste.
• Cost-effective — Newspapers are often readily available and inexpensive (or free if you’re recycling your own).
• Plant-friendly — Transplanting is stress-free for the plants since you can plant the entire pot into the soil, minimizing root disturbance.
• Customizable — You can make them in various sizes to accommodate different plant needs.

What You’ll Need

• Newspaper (avoid glossy pages as they might not degrade well)
• A can or a jar (as a mold)
• Scissors
• A tray or container to hold the pots

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Newspaper Pots

1. Prepare Your Newspaper — Cut the newspaper into strips. The width should be about twice the height of your can or jar. The length will wrap around the can or jar at least once.
2. Wrap the Newspaper — Place the can at one end of the strip, leaving about half the newspaper’s width extending beyond the bottom of the can. Wrap the newspaper tightly around the can.
3. Fold the Bottom — Fold the excess newspaper at the bottom of the can inward, creating the bottom of the pot. Press firmly to make sure the folds hold.
4. Slide and Shape — Carefully slide the newspaper off the can, then press the bottom flat on a hard surface to ensure it’s well-formed and stable.
5. Fill and Plant — Fill your newspaper pot with a good quality seed starting mix. Plant your seeds or cuttings as per their specific requirements.

Tips for Success

• Moisture Management — Newspaper pots can dry out faster than plastic ones, so keep an eye on moisture levels. However, they’re excellent for plants that prefer well-drained conditions.
• Durability — If you’re concerned about the pots holding up until transplanting time, consider double-layering the newspaper for extra strength.
• Labeling — Use a natural twine to tie a small label around the pot if needed. Ink from the newspaper might not be the best for writing directly on the pot.

Transplanting

When it’s time to transplant, you can plant the newspaper pot directly into the soil. The newspaper will naturally decompose, allowing roots to grow through. This method reduces transplant shock and is especially beneficial for plants that don’t like their roots disturbed.

Closing Thoughts

Making DIY newspaper pots is a simple, sustainable way to start your garden. It’s a small step towards a more eco-friendly gardening practice that can save you money and reduce your environmental footprint. Plus, it’s a great activity to do with kids, teaching them about recycling, plant care, and the joy of watching something grow from seed. Happy gardening!