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Start Seeds Indoors Using Egg Cartons

A tan-colored cardboard egg carton partially filled with potting soil on top of a floral tablecloth.

Video by Jonathan Parrish

Gardening can feel like a very expensive activity sometimes, but starting seeds for spring planting doesn’t have to be.

You can use egg cartons as a seed-starting tray! Depending on the type of carton you have, you can even cut apart the individual sections and plant them, as the carton will biodegrade.

Be sure to poke small holes for drainage, and put the cartons on a tray or in a shallow pan to catch any residual water.

If you don’t have a windowsill handy, try using LED lights for growing seeds indoors!

This method of starting seeds works for both flowers and vegetables. I recommend planting some marigold seeds, as they are quick to germinate, have visually striking leaves, and once planted, are relatively hardy in the landscape. Plus, they make great companion plants in the garden because they deter some insect pests!

For everything you need to know about vegetable gardening in Mississippi, download The Garden Tabloid, or pick up a copy at the local Extension office.

 

Mississippi State University Extension 130 Bost Drive Mississippi State MS 39762