If you’re not up for a DIY project, consider pots or trays made of biodegradable coir or composted manure (don’t worry, they’re odor-free and could pass for cardboard).
An assortment of plastic-free terracotta planting pots are displayed on Long Island, N. Y., on April 8, 2026. (Jessica Damiano via AP)
Jessica Damiano
When buying containers for larger plants, look to natural materials, like wood or terracotta.
Root vegetables, herbs and tomatoes grow especially well in fabric grow bags, which come in a variety of sizes. Those made for potatoes include a roll-up “door” that makes harvesting easy. Check the labels to ensure they’re made of natural, not synthetic, fibers.
Whenever possible, buy bare-root plants over those sold in plastic pots.
Packages of plastic-free, manure-based planting pots appear on Long Island, N.Y., on April 8, 2026. (Jessica Damiano via AP)
Jessica Damiano
Keep things basic with compost
Start your own compost pile so you won’t need as much soil or fertilizer. There will be no plastic bags to discard, and you’ll know exactly what went into the amendment. If that’s not possible, buy compost in bulk; it’s cheaper than bagged, anyway.
Choose canvas tarps over plastic ones and never use landscape fabric under beds or borders. Instead, stick with shredded bark, wood chips or dry leaves to discourage weeds, except in fire zones, where gravel is preferred as a matter of safety.
Use bamboo, wood or metal stakes to support tomatoes and vining plants. Secure them with a natural twine, like hemp or jute.
Wooden popsicle sticks make great plant markers.
And if you must buy plastic, avoid single-use items like flimsy seed trays. Using sturdy ones that will last for many years before discarding would be a step in the right direction. And a lot of little steps will add up.
Jessica Damiano writes regular gardening columns for The Associated Press. She publishes the award-winning Weekly Dirt Newsletter. Sign up here for weekly gardening tips and advice.
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