Newspaper Pots

Every year around this time I really get the springtime itch. All I want to do is get outside and mess around in my garden. Unfortunately, March in Ontario isn't exactly the best time to do much of anything in any garden. So, instead I get a head start on my vegetable garden from my window sill.

This year, I have decided to make my own pots instead of using the plastic seed starter kits. This little project not only saves money, but it also saves the landfill. These newspaper pots will break down in the ground...awesome!

All you need is a newspaper and any type of cylinder. Today, I will be using a can of soup as my cylinder.



The first thing you need to do is cut your newspaper into smaller squares. I used a small newspaper, therefore only had to cut it into two pieces. For a regular sized paper, cut each sheet into four squares.

Take one square and place it on a flat surface.

Fold the square in half, creating a long rectangle.

Lay the soup can (or whatever object you have decided to use) on it's side. I prefer to have the can lying on the folded edge rather than the loose edge. This merely creates a smoother finish when the pot is finished.

Next, roll the newspaper around the can.

It is up to you how big or small you want your pot. I prefer to make them fairly tall so the plants have lots of growing room.

Set the can down, without letting go of the newspaper.

Now, fold the bottom of the newspaper to create the bottom of the pot.

Flip the can around so the bottom of the pot is on the table. Push down on the can to strengthen the folds.

Voila! You now have a pot just waiting to be filled with soil and seeds.



When it is time to plant these pots in the ground, I have read that it is best if you pull or loosen the newspaper from the plant before planting it. This just ensures that your plant can stretch it's roots even if the paper hasn't fully broken down.