Don't Throw Out Plastic Takeout Boxes – Give Them New Life In Your Garden Instead

With millions of tons of plastic being tossed into trash cans every year, many folks prioritize finding creative ways to reduce their contribution to landfills. Plastic water bottles, plastic utensils, and takeout boxes that once housed a scrumptious meal from your favorite restaurant are some of the frequent offenders. Because to-go containers don't always advertise which type of plastic they are, recycling them can be a challenge. Yet, while the recycling bin is one solution so you don't throw out used takeout boxes, it isn't the only one. Instead of recycling, think about repurposing.

In the same way empty wine bottles can get a new lease on life in your garden, plastic to-go containers can be used as seed starters. All it takes to turn them into seed beds is punching some small holes in the bottom and then filling them with quality soil. The holes will allow the soil to drain so your seeds get enough oxygen to grow. Once the seedlings are sturdy enough to be moved, they can be easily transferred to a more permanent home in your garden.

If the container is durable and can hold an ample amount of soil, you don't even need to transfer the plants when they start to get bigger. However, if you are planting foods that you plan on adding to your salad when they are fully grown, plastic might not be the best option. It can leach chemicals into the soil, and because that soil is your plant's food, those appetizing veggies could end up being tainted with substances most would rather not consume.

Instead of using them directly in your garden, you can use the plastic containers to share the bounty you get from it with family and friends. The next time you have company over, send them off with some of the basil and tomatoes you grew together in the garden that they can enjoy however they like. It is essential to thoroughly clean them beforehand, but that is as simple as giving them a soak in soapy warm water for about 10 minutes and giving them a scrub. A quick application of isopropyl alcohol allowed to dry in the container will sanitize it afterward. Perforating the plastic container would make it perfect for the best way to store mushrooms, which includes ventilation.