It’s that time of year when we start thinking about gardening and starting seedlings. Did you know that you can make your own seed starter pots out of newspaper? Here’s how in 5 easy steps.

Items you will need:

• Newspaper

• Scissors

• Ruler

• A 10oz. or 15 oz. can to use as a form

Steps:

1. Take a single page of newspaper 22”x12” (roughly) and fold in half with long edges together. Press along folded edge.

2. Take a 10 or 15 oz. can and set it on its side on one end of the strip. Be sure that the cut edge of the strip is about 2” below the bottom of the can.

3. Roll the newspaper around the can to create a cylinder.

4. Starting at the outer seam, make a fold inward at the bottom of the can. Make 3 more folds inward to create the base of the pot. Press firmly to make folds as flat as possible.

5. Carefully slip the cylinder off the can. Again, starting at the outer seam, make a half-inch fold, folding toward the inside of the pot, all the way around the top of the pot to make a stable rim.

And there you have it! Your pot is ready for potting soil and seeds. Follow directions on your seed packets. These pots will work with herbs, flower and vegetable seeds.

Growing plants from seeds can be a great 4-H project! It’s fun and a great learning experience.