As a gardener, you may often look for innovative and cost-effective ways to improve your gardening techniques. One simple item that most people throw away—empty toilet paper rolls—can be a valuable resource in your gardening toolkit. Here’s why you should keep them and how they can benefit your plants.
1. Perfect Seed Starters
- Why It Works: Toilet paper rolls make excellent biodegradable seed starters. They are the perfect size for planting seeds, and when the seedlings are ready to be transplanted, you can plant the entire roll in the ground. The cardboard will break down naturally, minimizing root disturbance.
- How to Use:
- Cut the rolls in half to create two shorter tubes.
- Fill the tubes with potting soil, leaving a small gap at the top.
- Plant your seeds according to the depth recommended on the seed packet.
- Place the rolls in a shallow tray and water them lightly.
- Once the seedlings are strong enough, transplant them directly into the garden or a larger pot.
2. Protection for Young Plants
- Why It Works: Young plants and seedlings are often vulnerable to pests, harsh weather, and accidental damage. Toilet paper rolls can act as protective collars around the base of your plants, shielding them during their critical early growth stages.
- How to Use:
- After planting your seedlings in the garden, place a toilet paper roll around the stem of each plant.
- Push the roll slightly into the soil to anchor it.
- The roll will protect the stem from being nibbled by pests like cutworms and will also reduce the impact of strong winds.
- As the plant grows, the roll will decompose naturally, enriching the soil.
3. Compost Additive
TO CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE SEE PAGE 2
Pages: 1 2
