Growing seedlings without a greenhouse can be tricky in Britain’s unpredictable climate (storms one day, sun the next). But there’s one surprising household item that can help them grow quickly — even on a windowsill.
Cardboard egg cartons create a controlled mini-environment for young plants, giving seedlings like sweet peas or tomatoes a valuable head start before summer. It’s a quick, easy hack that takes less than 10 minutes to do, plus is a cheaper, more eco-friendly alternative to plastic trays.
‘Egg cartons can be cleaned out and used instead of modular trays or small pots for starting seedlings,’ says Richard Barker, a horticultural expert and commercial director at LBS Horticulture. ‘Best of all, you can then bury your egg cartons straight into the ground when it is time to transplant seedlings outside, as it will break down in the soil.’
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To try this yourself, first poke small drainage holes at the bottom of each compartment. Fill with soil before gently placing 1-2 seeds in each. Then, water lightly and place them in a warm, bright spot such as a windowsill (don’t forget to use a tray to catch the water).
Once a healthy green sprout begins to establish, you can then relocate your egg carton outside. Bury it straight in the ground (or remove each one and plant accordingly). The box will naturally disintegrate over time, also helping to suppress weeds in the process.
Julian Palphramand, head of plants at British Garden Centres, says they’re also great for growing vegetables: ‘Start chitting your early seed potatoes in egg boxes somewhere cool and bright, like a sunny windowsill. By doing this now, you will encourage the growth of sturdy shoots, which will give you a head start come planting time.’
Some of the best seedlings to grow on a windowsill in March include tomatoes, chillies, peppers, basil, cosmos and sweet peas.
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