LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) -- Chris Olsen from Botanica Gardens always has great advice on home and gardening projects.
This is the time of year that true gardeners get so excited when the seed catalogs come in the mail. We just can't wait to see what's new in plant varieties and the hope of spring is in our grasp. Here is a great way to grow your seeds even outdoors this time of year.
All you need is clean potting soil, clean plastic one gallon milk jugs, and seeds.
1. Prepare the jug.
Take a clean milk jug and, using a utility knife or scissors, make a cut about 4 inches up from the bottom, going nearly all the way around. Leave a couple inches uncut just below the handle to form a hinge. Then go ahead and poke a few holes in the bottom of each jug.
2. Make Labels.
Don't forget to make your own labels so you remember what seeds you have planted.
3. Soil and seeds.
Fill the jug with potting soil and then plant your seeds. Make sure you plant your seeds in holes created by a pencil. These are the perfect sizes holes for most seeds. Go ahead and double check the label of the package to see how deep the seeds should be planted.
4. Tape it up.
Go ahead and table the two half together with clear tape. Packing tape is the best.
5. Go Outside.
Now your new plantings are ready for the great outdoors even if there is snow outside. Place the jugs together in a bright lite area. On warm days, open the top half so the plantings have natural air flow and light.
6. Spring surprise.
Keep an eye on watering. The soil should be moist but not wet at all times.
And you can always visit Chris at Botanica Gardens, located at 1601 Rebsamen Park Road, for help on any gardening projects.