Young gardeners can use eggshells as pots to start seeds and coffee-stirrer tags to foretell what will pop up where. Plant seeds according to package instructions, and nestle planters in an egg carton on a sunny windowsill, where they can be watered easily. The first leaves to sprout will be the cotyledons or seed leaves, which supply nutrients to the young plant until the first true leaves (resembling those of the parent plant) appear. When plants have grown to about 3 inches and have at least two sets of true leaves, they are ready to be transplanted to the garden. (Remove them from the eggshells first.)
A fun way to get kids to anticipate the plants growing is with this germinating plant doodle coloring page.
Consider adding TickleMe Plant seeds. Ever see a plant that moves and closes its leaves when you Tickle It?
See video. Yes this is a real plant and rather easy to grow!
http://www.marthastewart.com/272741/shelf-life
Seeds that are larger and quick to germinate are best for kids. These include tomatoes, zinnias, and marigolds to name a few.
any recommendations on what seeds to plant?
I've done this before - it's a great idea! I always put a small [filtered word] in the bottom of the eggshell for drainage before I put in the soil and seed, then when it's ready to plant, I crack the bottom more so the roots can grow through.
sorrowsmiles, my guess is it's probably to keep the shell from restricting growth of the seedlings which probably aren't strong enough to break through the shell. Maybe gently 'smoosh it up' in your hand, taking care not to damage the plant, then plant the shell along with the plant. Or I could be wrong and it could be that it provides too much of one or another nutrient all at one time for such a small, undeveloped plant. Again, all guesswork on my part! It beats having absolutely no one ans
Why do you have to remove from eggshells first? Aren't those good for composting?
I live in an apartment so it isn't easy to find a lot of space for anything. This sounds like a really innovative way of starting something for myself while making herbs I'd like to use at a later date. Thanks for this, I'll be sure to try it out!!
I think this would make a charming Easter centerpiece, too.... honoring the tenderness of spring!
well, here comes the easiest way of starting a new garden for myself.. thank you