Comments on: Winter Sowing in Milk Jugs

By: Veggie Man

Veggie Man — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 15:27:58 +0000

Hey Karyl. Great post. A couple of ideas I tried: Instead of cutting the jugs in half take a pair of scissors and cut across the flat side of the jug away from the handle so you can hold the handle in your left hand(or) and have that side open. Anyway, cut across and then up on each side for a lift up flap. Then use either the plastic knives or the blinds slats to hold the flap closed. No tape needed to hold it shut; it doesn’t need to be completely airtight to get the earlier germination. This has worked extremely well for my lettuce and mesclun seeds. For larger plants like squash and tomatoes, perhaps not as well; I am awaiting their germination. Also, the 1 1/2 – 2″ all plastic slatted blinds work as GREAT plant markers when cut into sections and marked as per your choice. Just regular address labels printed on a laser printer will last for several seasons. It’s always great to hear other’s ideas and suggestions.

By: Pippi21

Pippi21 — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 11:51:21 +0000

Good tuitorial..what about throwing in there that most WS use either duct tape or foil tape to close their jugs? I never thought of the green twist ties, but it would work. That’s what I use to tie back my clematis vines to trellis. Some people find that using pipe cleaners will also work. Some people choose to use mini-blind cut to desired length for Plant ID tags. This is placed inside the milk jug/soda bottle/or other type container. I bought a brand new mini-blind from thrift shop for $3..Some people use plastic knifes as a marker inside the container. DOn’t think your labels on the outside will hold up to the winter weather elements..go to craft store or Walmart and buy paint pens..write on outside of container, a lot easier to see when you are checking for sprouts. There is a reason for not using popsickle sticks inside, but right now I can’t think of it. You could have used the soldering gun for punching your air holes around the neck of your milk jug too. Makes it easy. Yesterday since it got up in 70′s, I went out and enlarged my air holes with an old pair of sharp scissors. How are you keeping track of what you sowed, and date sown? Maybe you might want to add that part to your tuitorial. We all learn helpful tips from each other and what works for some people won’t work for others. I have learne that there are some wonderful gardeners on this forum always willing to share their experiences.

By: Karyl

Karyl — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 20:41:32 +0000

So far most of the seeds have sprouted. I’m stunned – except some Spotted Bee Balm Monarda punctata which of course I want in particular. It’s just teasing me by being late I hope.

By: Rosemary

Rosemary — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:45:46 +0000

I’m trying to start natives from seed as well, though not nearly as many as you’ve taken on. I look forward to seeing your results!

By: Karyl

Karyl — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 16:07:54 +0000

In my case enthusiasm may be synonymous with crazy. Wait until I have to start planting out! Sleep is over rated anyhow.