Make Seedling Pots From Newspaper

This year, I am using newspaper seedling pots instead of plastic ones. To get plants ready for the garden, I plant seeds in flats. After the seeds germinate, I put the seedlings in small pots where they grow until time to transplant them into the garden. You can also plant the seeds directly in the pots. I looked on the internet for ideas on how to make newspaper pots. There is a lot of information available.

First cut 3 or 4 sheets of newspaper lengthwise (about 5 inches wide). Roll these layers of paper onto a tomato paste can (can size depends on how large you want your pots). There should be about 2 inches of paper extending beyond the bottom of the can. Fold this paper edge in and press firmly on a surface like a table. This is the bottom of your pot.


Gently pull the can out of the roll of paper. I stapled the top edge of the roll so that it would stay in place. You can also tear and twist the top edge of the pot to keep it from unrolling. After experimenting, I found that a long-neck beer bottle works well. It gives you a handle to grab when pulling the bottle out of the paper roll. You do not need to buy a special form to roll the newspaper onto.

The pots support each other when they are placed in a flat. They should not be handled much until the plant is ready to be transplanted into the garden. Then plant the pot and seedling together. The newspaper will degrade and the plant roots do not get disturbed. No plastic pots and inexpensive!!