Taking care of your plants during the summer can be a real challenge. The heat, insects, and need for constant attention make plant care a task that requires patience and creativity. However, you don’t always need to invest in expensive gardening tools. A simple, everyday household item – the toilet paper roll – can offer surprising benefits for your plants.
Using toilet paper rolls as a seed nursery
One of the trickiest stages of gardening, especially for beginners, is getting the plants started. It’s not just about planting the seeds; you also need the right conditions for growth, which requires regular attention and care. If you are short on time or lack the right tools, a toilet paper roll can come to the rescue.
“Starting seeds in biodegradable containers like toilet paper rolls reduces transplant shock and waste. It’s an easy, eco-friendly way to give seedlings a great start,” explained Melinda Myers, a gardening expert.
Instead of tossing out the roll once it’s empty, cut it into two or three pieces. Place the pieces on a tray or another container, then fill them with potting soil and fertilizer. After planting the seeds, remember to water them regularly to ensure they develop properly.
When the seedlings are ready to be moved to larger pots, you don’t have to worry about removing the toilet paper roll. It will naturally break down over time, adding nutrients to the soil and aiding in the plant’s growth.
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Protect your plants with toilet paper rolls
Summer brings not only sunshine, but also a host of insects that can damage your plants. Slugs, snails, and various pests can quickly invade your garden, especially when dealing with young plants that are still fragile. However, with a few toilet paper rolls, you can create a simple but effective barrier to keep these pests at bay.
To do this, cut the rolls into pieces that are about 5 to 10 centimeters tall. Place these pieces around the base of your plants, and they’ll act as a protective shield. This barrier prevents insects from crawling up the stems, helping to safeguard your plants from harm. Also, this method encourages the stems to grow upright and stronger, which means your plants will be healthier and more robust in the long run.
Toilet paper rolls as mulch to keep plants healthy
In gardening, maintaining proper moisture levels in the soil is essential for plant growth. During the summer, it’s easy to forget to water your plants frequently, especially in hot weather. But you can simplify this task by using toilet paper rolls as a form of mulch.
Simply cut the rolls into small pieces and scatter them across the soil where your plants are growing. These small pieces help retain moisture in the soil, which reduces the frequency of watering required.
They act as a barrier against weeds, preventing them from taking root and competing with your plants for nutrients. Over time, the rolls will decompose, further enriching the soil and creating a healthy environment for your plants to thrive.
