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Seed starting containers

Horticulture Hints

Many types of containers are available for starting seed indoors. Starting seeds with a fresh, new container is best; but to save money and reduce landfill waste, many folks will recycle used seed trays.

If you are planning to reuse a container for starting your seeds, it must be cleaned and sterilized before use. Without proper sanitation, a previously used container can contaminate your seedlings by spreading disease or pests. A common disease to seedlings is damping-off, a fungal disease which causes seedlings to collapse and die, is spread by using unclean pots or overwatering.

To sterilize a pre-used container, first wash thoroughly with soapy water to remove any soil or residue. Emerge cleaned containers in a solution of one part chlorine bleach to nine parts water for about 30 minutes to disinfect them. Then rinse and allow to dry before filling with media.

The germination mix used for seed starting should be light weight, finely-textured and drain well. It should not contain a high amount of fertilizer, which can burn seedlings. Do not use garden soil or compost for starting seeds, or reused soil mix from the previous season, as these can contain pest and disease organisms.

DIY types of containers can be recycled for use in starting seeds. Examples include cut-off milk jugs, paper cups, egg cartons, and other similar containers may be used. Be sure to punch holes in the bottom of any type of container used to insure good drainage of excess water.

Did you know? Prepared media for seed starting is available commercially. For established plants, a homemade potting mix can be prepared using equal amounts (volumes) of pasteurized garden soil, sphagnum peat moss, and perlite.

Gardening Questions? Contact McCormick at yvonne@iastate.edu for information or advice.

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