Reusing Plastic Pots for Planting
Reusing plastic pots can be an excellent way to save money, reduce waste, and help the environment. As the demand for plants increases, more and more people are looking for ways to grow their own plants without spending a fortune on plastic pots and containers.
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Reusing Plastic Pots for Planting
With just a few simple steps and a little bit of creativity, you can repurpose plastic pots and containers into pots for your plants.
By reusing plastic pots for planting, you’ll not only be helping the environment by reducing your waste, but you’ll also be saving money. You want to do this all before you plan on starting seeds so you have everything ready to go when you are ready.
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Check for Damage
Check your plastic pots and trays for cracks, holes, or other damage. Do this before you take the time to clean them.
Disinfecting Plant Containers
Thoroughly clean and dry the pots before reusing you can easily do this by disinfecting the pots by soaking them in a solution of one-part bleach and 9 parts water for 10 minutes. Scrub away any dirt left sticking to them.
Rinse with clear water and dry. I recommend letting them air dry because I am all about working smarter, not harder, and not doing things I don't have to.
Now you're ready to start your new seeds and plants.
Chemical-Free Way to Disinfect Pots
A chemical-free way to sterilize plant pots is with vinegar.
Use a solution of one part vinegar to one part water. Spray your pots all over with the vinegar solution and let them sit for up to 30 minutes. After soaking, allow your pots to air dry thoroughly in the sun before using or storing them.
You can also use these methods to clean your gardening tools before the gardening season starts.
Is it safe to reuse plant pots?
Reusing plastic plant pots in the garden is not only environmentally friendly, but it can save you money which is, in large part, why we garden and grow food. Or at least why I do it for our family.
As long as you clean your plant pots there is no reason why it wouldn't be safe for you to reuse them. The reason behind cleaning them is to prevent any mold or disease from transferring from the pots to your seeds or seedlings.
