10 Household Items You Can Use for Seed Starting Instead of Buying Trays in 2026

You probably already have most of these in your recycling bin. Seed starting doesn’t require expensive trays or specialty kits. What seeds really need is drainage, light, and the right soil mix. The container is secondary, as long as it supports early root growth.

Here are 10 smart alternatives.

1. Egg Cartons

Cardboard egg cartons are ideal for small seeds like herbs, lettuce, and flowers.

Each compartment acts as an individual cell, keeping seedlings organized. Once roots develop, you can cut the sections apart and plant them directly in the soil. The cardboard breaks down over time.

Best for shallow-rooted plants.

2. Toilet Paper Rolls

Toilet paper tubes work well for crops that dislike root disturbance, such as peas and beans.

Stand them upright in a waterproof tray, fill with seed-starting mix, and plant. When ready to transplant, place the entire roll into the soil. The paper softens and decomposes naturally.

The vertical shape encourages strong root growth.

3. Paper Cups

Paper cups are sturdy and easy to label.

Poke drainage holes in the bottom and use them for larger seedlings like tomatoes or peppers. Remove the plant from the cup before transplanting, especially if the inside has a wax coating that slows decomposition.

They offer more depth than egg cartons.

4. Milk or Juice Cartons

Clean cartons thoroughly, cut them down to size, and add drainage holes.

They hold more soil, making them suitable for plants that need deeper root space, such as squash or sunflowers. Their height helps stabilize taller seedlings before moving them outdoors.

5. Aluminum Cans

Washed aluminum cans make durable seed-starting pots.

Remove sharp edges and add holes for drainage. They retain moisture well and can be reused season after season.

Their rigidity supports plants that outgrow flimsy containers quickly.

6. Glass Jars (for Germination)

Wide-mouth jars can create a greenhouse effect for starting seeds.

Add a thin drainage layer of pebbles at the bottom before soil. Because glass doesn’t allow drainage through the base, monitor moisture carefully.

Best for indoor herbs or observing early germination stages.

7. Plastic Takeout Containers

Clear plastic containers with lids are perfect for creating mini humidity domes.

Fill the base with soil, plant seeds, and close the lid until germination. Once sprouts appear, remove the lid to prevent mold and leggy growth.

They work especially well for starting multiple small seeds at once.

8. Yogurt Cups

Single-serve yogurt containers are nearly identical to small nursery pots.

Wash them, poke holes in the bottom, and use them for individual seedlings. They are compact and easy to move under grow lights or onto windowsills.

9. Cardboard Produce Boxes

Low, wide produce boxes can act as temporary seed trays.

Line the bottom with newspaper, fill with soil, and sow multiple rows of seeds. Thin seedlings as they grow, then transplant individually.

Avoid planting thick cardboard directly in soil, as it takes longer to break down.

10. Berry Clamshell Containers

Clear plastic berry containers already have ventilation holes.

Fill them with soil and use the hinged lid as a built-in humidity cover during germination. Once seedlings sprout, open the lid for airflow.

They are lightweight and ideal for herbs and leafy greens.

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