bathroom cup plant start tub

[wally mcgee]

I have used 3oz plastic bathroom cups ( with a hole drilled in the bottom ) for several years now. They seem to work well for my needs, space, versatility, etc.

I used a 28oz tub and drilled 1& 1/2" holes in the lid. My tub will hold 40 of these cups.
I glued styrofoam in the bottom to raise the floor up to the bottom of the cups and lined it with plastic which eliminates the need for so much water, which adds weight.
I also made others to facilitate large plastic cups which I use for plants that need potting on.

The lid holds the cups in place, and when its time to set them out I grab the whole tub and head out. I have used tins to hold them and had trouble with them falling over.

In the picture I have broccoli, sage, celery, and lettuce, all of which were multi seeded in a 3oz cup and then potted into their own cup.

[luigiwu]

I really like this set up! How do you water them - from the bottom? do you have a hole in the corner of the lid somewhere for the fill-hole? And if the sit in a bit of water, do you ever have any damping off issues?

[rags57078]

Great idea

[Worth1]

You mean 28 (quart) tub dont you?
I couldn't find a 28 oz tub to save my life except for a popcorn container.

Looks good something I plan on doing with holes for cups but in a different way.

worth

[Rockporter]

This is a great way to plant and seed. I like it and economical too.

[wally mcgee]

Yes, I did mean 28qt tubs. They are Sterling 28qt tubs I purchased at Home Depot for about 5.?? I currently just lift a cup and add water there; I am open to suggestions on that....would like a flag of sorts like I've read about with the earth tainers.
I haven't had any trouble with dampening off but I sprinkle the plants with a light dusting of cinnamon.. seems to work as they are in a damp old basement.

[wally mcgee]

I generally only keep a quarter inch of water in the bottom so they don't get water logged. I was considering using felt as a moisture mat. Again I'm open to ideas..

[peppero]

congrats on a good idea. I always like to see good ideas that work. Thanks for sharing.

jon