HOW TO: Make a Recycled Plastic Clam-Shell Greenhouse

Have you seen these odd plastic clam-shells that house fruit at your local grocery? If one happens to land in your recycling bin, you can transform it into a miniature greenhouse, perfect for starting herbs from seed. It works perfectly and holds the herbs until they are ready to bet transplanted to a pot. Wouldn’t these be perfect spring activities for the kids – each of them could have their own personal greenhouse. Do you want to start your own plastic clam-shell greenhouse? Read on for my photo step-by-step instructions.


What you will need:

– a plastic clam-shell container that snaps closed
– organic potting soil
– organic seeds
– craft knife

Step 1: Prepare for Drainage

Use your craft knife to cut a small slit in the bottom of each of the “bubbles”, allowing for drainage.

Step 2: Just Add Dirt

Fill each of the “bubbles” full of a great organic potting soil. Make sure you don’t cover the little holes that snaps the top and bottom of the clam shell together.

Step 3: Prepare for Seeds

Use the end of your craft knife to make a small indent in the center of each “bubble”. This is where you will plant your seeds.

Step 4: Plant the Seeds

Plant an assortment of herbs in the “bubbles”. We planted basil, thyme, parsley and cilantro!

Step 5: Just Add Water

Add enough water to keep the soil moist. You will want to check it daily to make sure that it doesn’t dry out.

Step 6: Snap it Closed

Simply snap the clam shell closed and don’t forget to check it everyday.

Step 7: Watch your Garden Grow!

We already have basil and thyme and we are hoping to see parsley and cilantro soon.

Would you make a recycled greenhouse?

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