[Njal]

Okay, probably not an original idea but I needed some propagators and was wondering what to do with some ice cream tubs I had lying empty.

Also, being out of a job means I have to get creative! 

A simple empty ice cream tub:


Cut the top out, leaving the rim:


Stretch cling film across the top, replace the lid. Obviously put potting compost and seeds in first. Holes can be pricked in the cling film later:


Let me know what you think!

[DD.]

Very neat job! You don't have to spend a fortune.

This is what I use.....



Inflated re-sealable, re-useable polythene bags - sorry about the brand name!

[gaz.grace]

i KNOW WOT YOU MEAN ..Hard time at mo for a lot of us .. i have used old tub ready for starting mine soon   

[chooknewbie]

would strawberry plastic punnets work ? the wider shallower sort... from the supermarket that we dont name.....

[Duracell]

Anything that comes in a plastic pot is subjected to recycling  . With that and paper pot about the only thing I have to buy is the seedling compost.

[mikem]

DD - I was thinking about the ice cream containers and one of your previous posts re sowing leeks in a deep, from memory, cat litter tray.  Would these containers be a good idea - I was a bit concerned that the roots of leeks would need more room than any "normal" container that I have.  I usually start mine in the garden and then transplant.  Which way do you think would get the best results?  To get you out of making a decision I might try both ways and see what turns out to be best! 

[Chappers]

And if you want a heated propagator then you could buy a cheap (£15 from Argos) single electric blanket and stand your tubs on that. Obviously not while your in bed with said blanket, might make a mess 

[Parsnip]

And if you want a heated propagator then you could buy a cheap (£15 from Argos) single electric blanket and stand your tubs on that. Obviously not while your in bed with said blanket, might make a mess 

 


Those proagators are a great idea..

DD what are you growing?

[DD.]

DD - I was thinking about the ice cream containers and one of your previous posts re sowing leeks in a deep, from memory, cat litter tray.  Would these containers be a good idea - I was a bit concerned that the roots of leeks would need more room than any "normal" container that I have.  I usually start mine in the garden and then transplant.  Which way do you think would get the best results?  To get you out of making a decision I might try both ways and see what turns out to be best! 

I don't see why not, not as wide as a cat litter tray, you'd just need a few more maybe- but if they're free it won't matter!

[DD.]

And if you want a heated propagator then you could buy a cheap (£15 from Argos) single electric blanket and stand your tubs on that. Obviously not while your in bed with said blanket, might make a mess 

 


Those proagators are a great idea..


DD what are you growing?

You know - I can't remember!

This was originally posted last year and I've been to bed since. I think these were possibly flower seed, maybe Busy Lizzies or of that ilk.

I've just got hot house toms going at the moment.

[Parsnip]

Do you put ventilation holes in them?   

[DD.]

Stupid girl!

[titch]

you have got me thinking..........
i have a heat mat for going under a tarantula or snake/lizard tank - would that help as a cheap heated propergator (like the leccy blanket idea?)
and i know this sounds daft, but how do i inflate the bags and seal them with the air in (its ok, you can laugh, i cant hear you)

going to do some planting this weekend indoors so thought i could crib these fab ideas

also would they sprout ok in spare room that only has a skylight - would that be enough light for them?
not much room in the ktichen near a plug socket

[DD.]

There's a technnique to inflating the bags!

Your seal most of it first, leaving s amall hole at the end. Stick your tonque in this, put your lips over the bag and blow! Quickly remove tongue & seal.

You may need a bit of practice and I suppose the same effect could be obtained in a more sophisticated manner with a drinking straw.

You'll need as much light as you can muster once germinated- don't forget the ali fol and take them out of whatever you use as soon as they germinate.

Above all - DON'T SOW TOO SOON!

[mikem]

Quickly remove tongue & seal.

When do you put the seal in the bag and won't the animal cruelty people get upset with you!  Sorry, I had this picture of you trying to pull a seal out of the bag!