But there are some general rules to follow when choosing containers to use for winter sowing. Last year I wrote a post about winter sowing containers, where I listed these basic rules. In that post, I also briefly mentioned the types of containers I prefer to use and why.
To take it a step further, I thought it would be fun to go into more details about the pros and cons of the containers I prefer.
The basic things I look for in a winter sowing container are:
- Reusable
- Tight fitting removable lids
- Dishwasher safe
- Flat tops (snow and water will collect on top and seep into the containers, making watering easier)
- Containers stack nicely, for easy storage and transportation
1. Disposable food storage containers: In this first photo, the ones with the red lids and the ones with the blue lids are disposable food storage containers. I have tons of these types of containers in my winter sowing stash. I have purchased some of them, but most of them I've saved and reused (since they are marketed as disposable, I don't like to use them for food more than once). Old Tupperware (and other name brand) containers are even better. I find them in the free bins at garage sales. It seems they'll last forever!
 |
| Disposable food storage containers used for winter sowing |
Benefits:
- Dishwasher safe
- Most can be used for multiple years
- Lids fit on tight and won't blow away
Things to look out for:
- Some types will start to disintegrate after only one season
- A few sizes are barely deep enough, leaving hardly any head room for seedling growth
2. Large buckets: Ice cream buckets and other large buckets are another one of my favorites. The type of container that sherbet comes in are more durable than the 1gallon ice cream buckets.
 |
| Ice cream buckets used for winter sowing |
- Deep enough for fast growing, climbing seedlings like peas, squash and beans
- Dishwasher safe
- Lids fit on tight and won't blow away
Things to look out for:
- Most ice cream buckets I've used only last one season before they start to crumble
3. Deli, produce and baked goods containers: There are tons of potential winter sowing containers in the deli, bakery and produce sections. My favorites are the ones that salad greens come in (far left in this picture). These are generally more durable and last longer than the types of containers baked goods come in (right).
 |
| Deli, produce and baked good containers used for winter sowing |
Benefits:
- Many sizes to choose from
- Most deli containers (that come with potato salad, etc.) are dishwasher safe and can be reused
Things to look out for:
- Most from the bakery section are not dishwasher safe
- Many can be flimsy and start to crumble after only one use
- Some don't have removable lids (they fold over), making them harder to work with
- Lids don't always fit on tight and may blow away
4. Restaurant take out containers: The next picture shows several different types of containers, some I've already talked about. The two in the center, and one bottom left came with salads I ordered from various restaurants. These types of containers are more durable and last longer than the type you get that are square and have an attached, fold-over lid.
 |
| Restaurant take out containers used for winter sowing |
Benefits:
- Durable and reusable
- Many are deep enough for tall seedlings
Things to look out for:
- Most are not dishwasher safe
- Some aren't deep enough for winter sowing
If you are just starting out with winter sowing, I encourage you to experiment with several different types of containers to find your favorites. Even if you know a container will only last one season, try it out. Sometimes you have to take what you can get until you build up a collection of reusable containers. The possibilities are endless.
Pin It
No comments:
Post a Comment