How to Make Newspaper Pots...the Easy Way

I've seen a lot of videos and blog posts about making newspaper pots. Here's my review of the collection I've seen: They're fussy. Look, if there's folding and taping involved, and what seems like a necessary third hand somewhere, it's too fussy. Here's my way. You only need two hands, a can and some soil.

I'll be honest here and say yes, we do drink Miller Light sometimes. Soda cans will work for this project but not as well. The beer cans are made of thicker aluminum and do not bend or warp as easily. They are also taller which makes them easier to pull out of the wrapped newspaper. Just use whatever you can get your hands on.

Step 1: Cut the newspaper into 3" wide strips.

 

Step 2: Wrap one strip around the base of the can leaving about 1" to hang over the end.

Step 3: Starting with the seam, fold the extra newspaper under the base of the can. 

Step 4: Press the base of the can into the palm of your hand. 

Step 5: Pull the newspaper pot off the can.

Step 6: While it's still cupped in your hand, fill it with soil. The bottom of the pot MUST be cupped in your hand or the soil will go right through. 

Step 7: Set the filled pot carefully in a water tight container (storage containers, glass cookware and plastic take out containers are all good for this project.)

Step 8: Insert your seed. 

Step 9: Add water to the holding container NOT directly over the seed pots. If you water directly your seeds may get dislodged and tiny seedlings can be damaged. The newspaper will wick the water to the top of the soil gently. Start by filling your container one inch at a time to make sure you don't over water. It may take a few waterings to get the top of the soil damp. 

Step 10: Place your containers of newspaper pots in full sun, a greenhouse or under grow lights. Pour water in the container when the soil starts to get dry. Once seedlings have gotten their first true leaves, water only when they begin to droop.  This will start the hardening off process and prevent root rot.

There you go! It's a simple process and goes very quickly once you get the hang of it. This is probably the least expensive way to start seedlings and I like it much better than peat pellets, tiny seedling mats or anything else I've tried. When it is time to plant, I'll put the whole pot in the ground to keep from disturbing the root systems. Newspaper decomposes very quickly in the soil. Here's an example of what they look like after a few weeks. 

What is your favorite seed starting container?

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