Starting seeds doesn’t have to be costly or complicated. Discover 15 creative and free seed starting containers that utilize items you already have at home and save you money.
It's that wonderful time of year again—seed starting season! I’ve been eagerly awaiting this moment, even though the weather seems to be taking its sweet time to warm up. I trust in God’s timing and know that starting these seeds is essential if we want a fruitful garden this year.
This year, we’re planning to start over 200 plants, and honestly, I’d rather not buy 200 peat pots. I know some of you might be starting even more, so I’ve put together a list of FREE seed starting containers that can help us all stay on budget while nurturing our green thumbs.
15 Creative and Frugal DIY Seed Starting Containers
Starting seeds doesn’t have to be costly. You can use items you already have around the house, which is both practical and resourceful. I do use peat pots occasionally, but these frugal alternatives are a great way to nurture your garden without breaking the bank.
Eggshells
Spring brings an abundance of eggs, and those eggshells can be put to good use! They’re perfect for starting smaller seedlings. Just add some soil to the shell, plant your seed, and when it's time, you can plant the whole shell in the ground. Simple and eco-friendly!
Egg Cartons
If you have some egg cartons hanging around, don’t throw them away! These biodegradable cartons are excellent for starting seeds. They’re not the best for larger plants, but they work wonderfully for many seedlings. Just add soil and seeds, and you’re set!
Citrus Peels or Avocado Skins
Even if avocados aren’t your favorite, their skins are great for starting seeds. Citrus peels, like those from oranges, work too! These larger peels are ideal for bigger plants. Hollow them out, fill with soil, and start your seeds.
Yogurt Cups
Old yogurt cups are just the right size for starting seeds. Clean them out, poke a few holes in the bottom for drainage, and they’re ready to use. When it’s time to transplant, you can squeeze them gently to release the soil ball.
Old Potting Trays
Don’t toss those old flower flats! Disinfect them and reuse them for starting your seeds. They’re perfectly sized and help reduce waste.
Toilet Paper Rolls
Toilet paper rolls are a great, biodegradable option for starting seeds. They’re the right size and plentiful if you’re crafty. You can find simple tutorials online to help you make the most of these.
Newspaper Pots
Newspaper can be transformed into nifty little pots for starting seeds. They’re quick to make and completely biodegradable. Check out tutorials online to create your own.
Old Water or Soda Bottles
If you have empty plastic bottles, repurpose them for seed starting. Just cut off the tops, poke some holes in the bottoms for drainage, and you’re good to go. They’re especially handy for larger plants.
DIY Soil Blocks
Skip the containers altogether with DIY soil blocks. A couple of repurposed items can help you create these blocks. I’m excited to try this method and will share my experience soon!
Takeout Containers
Those plastic containers from takeout meals make excellent mini greenhouses. Just poke a few holes in the bottom, add soil, and start your seeds. These work well for onions and other transplants.
To-Go Cups
Have some paper or plastic cups from your favorite coffee shop? Use them for seed starting and compost the paper ones when you’re done. Poke holes in the bottom, add soil, and start your seeds.
Ice Cube Trays
Ice cube trays are a perfect size for starting seeds. Poke small holes in the bottom of each compartment, fill with soil, and plant your seeds. They’re a handy and space-saving option!
Clamshell Containers
Those clamshell containers from berries and tomatoes can be repurposed for seeds. They often come with built-in drainage and a lid, making them ideal for starting seeds indoors.
Muffin Tins
If you have an old muffin tin lying around, it can be repurposed for starting seeds. Simply line each cup with a small piece of paper towel or coffee filter to prevent soil from falling through, add soil, and plant your seeds. The tin’s small size makes it perfect for a variety of seedlings.
Aluminum Foil Baking Trays
If you have some aluminum foil baking trays that you’ve used or saved, they can be repurposed for seed starting. These trays are often the perfect size for starting multiple seedlings at once. Just line them with a bit of paper towel or newspaper to prevent soil from falling through the holes, add your potting soil, and start your seeds. They’re lightweight and can be easily recycled after use.
I hope these 15 creative seed starting containers inspire you to get your garden growing without breaking the bank! I’d love to hear about your favorite seed starting tricks—please share in the comments below. For more gardening tips and inspiration, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for daily updates and a vibrant gardening community.
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Carol says
Love the eggshell and avocado peel ideas - hadn't even thought of those! Any recommendations on how to keep them upright when starting seeds (Tray? Free standing in the cold frame?) without using any precious egg cartons?
Danielle McCoy says
Hi Carol, You could probably set them in a tray or set them in an inch or so of seed starting mix to keep them upright.
Carol says
Great, will do. Thanks!
Twila says
@Carol,
The egg shells work great ! The larger the better and we just used the egg cartons to hold them up. there was a beautiful root structure on all our tomatoes, peppers & eggplant.
Kathy says
Use to go cup trays those cardboard ones from Dunkin’ or the like for avocado skins. I keep my avocados in them too keeps them from getting bruised