Garden Prep

It's finally time to get outside and start some garden planning! My yard is a mess and I still have plants in the ground from last season that I never dealt with and our compost hasn't been turned in months... where to start?! SEEDS! Might as well start with the thing that takes no effort but lots of time. I know that seeds seem like a hassle, but it's so worth it when you go to eat your first tomato off of a plant that you've nurtured from the beginning (kind of like the feeling you get when your kid graduates college, i'm sure)!   
There are so many different vessels in which to start your seeds these days. Plastic, biodegradable, small, large, soil pellets, organic seed starting mix, etc... it's very easy to get overwhelmed with all the choices you have for starting your seeds. That's when I say, "screw the man!* I'm going rouge with my seeds"! 
To make your own seed starting containers all you need is a can of anything (beans, soup, tomatoes, etc.), newspaper and tape. 

1.) Tear a piece of newspaper in half, longways. Roll can in the paper, leaving a few inches space at the bottom. Tape together when rolled up all the way.

 2.) Fold in the extra paper at the bottom (like you're wrapping a present) and secure with a piece of tape.

3.) Pull out the can, put in some soil and plant your seed!

These are biodegradable, so when your little guy is big enough to go in the ground, just tear the bottom back a bit and put him in a hole! 

As far as what soil to use, I always get an organic brand, but I don't worry about whether it's specifically for seeds or not. Seed starters are mixed with peat moss to make it lighter, but as long as you're not over-watering, any organic soil will be fine. Remember: always use a spray bottle or mister when watering seeds and seedlings!

*"the man"- big-box stores who want to confuse you so that you'll just buy everything