DIY Recycled Drink Can Seed Starters

Things you'll need

-Old Soda cans
-Cutting instruments
-A Drill & bit
-Painters tape
-Soil (I used soil especially for seed starting)
-Seeds
-Water
-Some sort of tray for drainage
-A marker for labeling

Step 1: Drilling

This was the most difficult part of this little project.
I highly recommend that drilling is done before the cans are cut because it's easier to hold onto, speaking from an experience including a tiny jump-scare-like mishap.

Note: If you're under age or have never used a drill before, you may wish to seek help from an adult or person with experience using tools.

Step 2: Cutting

Starting in the center of the can, cut around with a razor or knife enough to continue with scissors or wire cutters.

Next take the cutters and remove the jagged edges.

Discard the top half of the can and the shavings to recycle as you see fit.

Step 3: Now Tape It

Tape the edges to be sure to avoid injury. Especially when it comes time to plant your sprouts. #SafeOrSorry

Step 4: Label Appropriately

I found it easiest to write on the tape and then rip it off and place on the can. Don't be afraid to get creative!

Step 5: Add Dirt, Seeds, and Water

Add soil and follow sewing directions on seed package. And you're done! They were wide enough that I was able to start three sprouts in each can (I pressed three holes in the shape of a triangle into the dirt with a sharpie) Over all it took me around 10 mins to do three cans from start to finish.

Please if you have any questions, comments or improvements- let me know!

Comments

[Auberrie]

@CLullham Thank you for comment, great question! The intent is for these to be used as seed *starters*, so the seed should sprout and be removed from the tin within three months. Long before it should rust. But the amount of time it takes for the sprout to grow enough to be transplanted entirely depends on what plant you are growing. I started radishes in some and they were ready in two weeks, however, the lavender took nearly two months.
Also, I would imagine that cans made for containing a liquid for however long it takes for it to make the journey from the factory, to a warehouse(where it could sit for months), to a store and into the buyers hands that it should be at least somewhat of a rust-resistant can. Just saying :)
Hope this answers your questions!

[CLullham]

Isn't this bad for your plants? I mean, it's a tin can after all. It will rust eventually, sooner than later

[seamster]

Great idea, I like this!

Thank you!