If you want to start gardening but fear you missed the season, winter sowing is a great option! And with the cold weather of December and January just around the corner, it's a perfect time to start thinking about your garden and how you can get ahead of the game with this step-by-step guide on how to sow your winter seeds in milk jugs.

Winter sowing is an easy, fun way to grow your plants from seed at home and can be done with materials you already have lying around the house. Keep reading for instructions on how to get started.

What You’ll Need 

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Here are some common household supplies you will need to sow your seeds in milk jugs this winter:

  • Empty one-gallon milk jugs
  • Scissors or sharp knife
  • Permanent marker
  • Soil mix
  • Seeds
  • Duct tape

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Sow Your Seeds Using Milk Jugs

This method of seed sowing is great for those who are space-challenged and want to get a jumpstart on their garden. Here’s how you can winter sow your own seeds using recycled milk jugs.

Step One - Clean Your Supplies

array of gardening tools including garden spade, shears, and garden gloves
Image credits: stux via Pixabay

Image credits: Stefan Schweihofer via Pixabay

Start your winter sowing adventure by thoroughly cleaning and drying the milk jugs you plan to use. You can wash them in soapy water or fill them with a 10 percent bleach solution.

Rinse out any bleach residue with clear water before starting your project. This will help ensure that the seedlings don’t get contaminated by anything left over in the jug. Once everything is clean and dry, you’re ready to move on to the next step!

Step Two - Prepare the Containers

Empty milk jug

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Start by taking a pair of sharp scissors or a sharp knife and carefully cutting around the middle of the jug so that you can open it up like a lid. Discard the cap.

Next, make some drainage holes near the bottom of each jug to make sure any extra water is released preventing mold or mildew growth.

Step Three - Fill With Soil Mix 

Trowel and Soil

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Once you have prepped your milk jug, it's time to fill up the bottom half with some soil. You'll want to use a potting medium of your choice. Something lightweight and well-draining is ideal for winter sowing.

Fill up the bottom half of the jug with approximately three to four inches of soil, making sure that it is slightly muddy and lightly tamped down. Give your seedlings their best chance at success by giving them a moist environment to germinate in. Watering thoroughly to help give your seeds the right conditions they need to get growing.

Step Four - Seeding 

Man's hand holding wildflower seed that has been collected

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Now that the milk jugs have been prepared and filled with soil, it's time to plant your seeds! Follow the directions on the seed packet for how deep to place them.

Generally speaking, most of the seeds you plant will germinate, so be sure not to overcrowd them when planting. You might have to thin out any extra plants once they grow in order to give each one enough space for optimal growth.

Step Five - Label 

Turnip label in a garden

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Now that your jugs are ready to go, label them so you don't forget what type of seeds you planted in each one. It's best to use a permanent marker or paint pen on the outside of the container and label both the inside and the outside. This way, if you ever need to open the jug and discard the top, you'll still be able to identify what type of seed is inside.

Step Six - Close the Jugs 

Milk jug outdoors

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Using poly tape or duct tape, cut a 2-inch strip and attach it vertically on the cut. This will help to prevent any air from escaping. Then, cut two 8-inch strips and apply them around the seam you just made for an extra secure seal. Now your mini greenhouses are all set for those cool winter months.

Step Seven - Place Jugs Outdoors

Plastic milk jug cut in half to cover garden plants to protect from pests

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To get the best results for germination, look for a partly protected sunny area in your yard, such as the southeast corner of your house. This will help protect the jugs from strong winds and heavy rain while still receiving ample sunlight.

Once you've found an appropriate space, set down the jugs and wait! Germination can take some time depending on the type of seed, so keep checking back periodically and always watch out for signs of growth. It may be tedious, but being patient pays off in this case.

Step Eight - Water and Monitor Plants

Watering baby cucumber plants

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Check the soil by pushing your finger into it. If it feels dry an inch down, then give it a good soaking. Be careful not to overwater! If there's standing water in the jug after watering, drain some off before putting them back outside. Monitor your plants regularly to check for signs of new growth.

Use this time to monitor the moisture level of the soil too. Especially if the temperature goes above 30 degrees Fahrenheit. With regular monitoring, you can guarantee that your winter-sown seeds will thrive all season long.

Plants To Use

Reuse plastic for planting vegetable seeds.

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If you're looking to try something new, try growing your favorites in milk jugs this winter! When sowing your seeds ensure to only plant one type per container. Remember, not all plants are fit for winter sowing.

Here are some great choices to consider.

Got Milk (Jugs)?

Winter sowing is a great way to get a jump on the gardening season, and with this step-by-step guide, you can be well on your way to growing a beautiful garden. Just prepare adequately, be patient, and perform regular maintenance and you’ll be rewarded with lush foliage come springtime.

So, what are you waiting for? Don't forget to share this article with your friends and family who love gardening too. Do you have any tips or tricks for sowing seeds in milk jugs? Leave a comment below!