Are you searching for alternatives to the standard single-use seed starting trays?
Good news!
There are SO many reusable seed starting tray possibilities out there for you! In this post, I will highlight four options I’m using this year for my indoor seed starting setup!
Why is this important?
Many of us embark on our indoor gardening journey to become more self-sufficient and sustainable… So it can feel counterintuitive to use and throw away giant plastic trays yearly!
Of course, you can always save and reuse those old regular trays but here are some other options I am implementing this year!
REUSE YOUR RECYCLING
Egg Carton Seed Starter
An old, egg cartons act as a a perfect DIY seed starter tray.
I love them for several reasons, firstly, they are the perfect size for tiny seedlings! Plant your indoor start seeds in either 12 or 18-carton packages and watch them sprout!
Second, these are completely biodegradable. While I would still recommend removing the seedling from the carton when transplanting, no lingering guilt is necessary for extra plastic trash created.
Yogurt Containers
If you’re like me and you love a sweet treat, you may find yourself with a bunch of these cute containers that it feels plain wrong to waste!
Due to their larger size, these containers are perfect for seedlings you plan to nurture indoors for longer.
Save some up for a few months and before you know it you will have a great little collection of adorable tiny pots.
Raid Your Recycling
Take a look through your recycling and you will find many contenders for your indoor seed starting setup.
Some of my favorite options to look out for are sour cream and cream cheese containers, takeaway containers, or basically any small plastic container that comes with a lid!
Reusable Seed Starting Trays
A new tool I am adding to my seed-starting arsenal this year is this reusable pop-up seed tray made by the brand Burpee.
I am so excited to try out this new option and the many useful benefits that it brings!
First and foremost, this item will stay in my indoor gardening for years. It is compact and made of sturdy plastic that will stand the test of time much more gracefully than the standard single-use variety.
Another aspect that intrigues me is the pop-up feature! When it comes time to transplant, I will be able to simply press the bottom of the tray and my new seedling will be ready for its new home!
