How to Germinate Seeds in Soda Bottles

Plastic soda bottles provide an excellent environment for germinating seeds. They hold soil and water effectively while maintaining the high levels of moisture necessary for seeds to sprout. The chosen bottle must be clear, because colored bottles prevent light from reaching the seedlings. It's important to select a lightweight growing medium so that sprouting isn't inhibited by heavy soil. Positioning the soda bottle in a location that receives the ideal amount of light is also crucial to seed germination and the growth of young plants.

Things You'll Need

Clear 2-liter soda bottle
Knife
Sharp nail

Pea gravel
Lightweight potting mix

Instructions

- 1
  Peel the label from a clear 2-liter soda bottle.
- 2
  Remove the lid from the bottle. Use a sharp knife to cut the bottle in half.
- 3
  Poke three to five holes in the bottom of the bottle with a sharp nail.
- 4
  Place a 2-inch layer of pea gravel in the bottom of the bottle to keep it from tipping over easily.
- 5
  Fill the bottle three-quarters of the way with lightweight potting mix.
- 6
  Add just enough water to moisten the soil, but not so much that it feels soggy.
- 7
  Sow the seeds at the depth listed on the seed packet.
- 8
  Place the bottle in a location that receives the recommended amount of light. This varies among plants, so check the information on the back of the seed packet to be sure.
- 9
  Add moisture only if the top layer of potting mix feels completely dry.

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