If you have old plastic bottles lying around, don’t toss them out – they can actually be recycled into a handy item that will help you grow many different kinds of plants
Plastic is one of the most polluting substances on our planet.
According to the UN, between 18 to 23 million tonnes leaks into aquatic ecosystems each year. This means it’s important to recycle it whenever we can. Fortunately, experts say that you can transform your old plastic bottles into miniature greenhouses.
Greenhouses are typically made of glass and concentrate light onto plants, creating a warm, temperate environment for them to grow in. It also helps to protect them from harsh elements. This can be necessary for certain plants, especially during cold British winters.
Even better, it helps keep plants safe from pernicious pests. Rats, foxes and bugs can be drawn to plants growing in your garden, putting you at risk of contracting a disease.
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There are many popular plants that fare better when grown in a greenhouse environment. This includes fruits like tomatoes, cucumbers and strawberries, as well as plants like petunias and succulents.
Of course, installing an actual greenhouse can be expensive. Plus, depending on the size of your garden, you may not have enough room.
Therefore this plastic bottle hack can be an ideal way to recreate the greenhouse effect without splashing the cash. It’s also great if you only have a small garden or balcony to work with.
So, how exactly do you go about creating them? All you need is an old plastic bottle, a pair of scissors and the seeds you want to grow.
Greenhouses Direct write: “If you don’t have a greenhouse and want to sow a few seeds or bring on cuttings, here’s the answer. Get a plastic two-litre soft drink/soda bottle, remove the labels and cut off the bottom.”
They add: “Then sit it on top of your cuttings or seeds in a pot. Once the seeds have started to grow or the cuttings have rooted, you can remove your mini-bottle greenhouse.”
It works because plastic allows in a lot of light, which creates a similar effect to a glass greenhouse. This will create a miniature warm environment for your little seedlings.
Of course, plastic is famously non-biodegradable. This means that you can keep reusing your makeshift greenhouses over and over again for new plants.
Greenhouses Direct also suggest a great way to reuse your old milk cartons. Simply cut some small holes in the lid and fill with water to give your plants a burst of hydration.
Another great trick is to reuse your coffee grounds as fertiliser. They’re high in nitrogen, which will give your plants a needed boost.