India

7 ways to reuse plastic bottles for gardening

Turn Them Into Self-Watering Pots
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Turn Them Into Self-Watering Pots
Going away for a weekend? Cut a plastic bottle in half, fill the bottom with water and place the top portion upside down with a plant in it. The soil slowly absorbs water, keeping plants hydrated for days.

Perfect for balcony gardeners who often forget to water their plants.
Make A Slow-Release Watering Bottle
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Make A Slow-Release Watering Bottle
Poke a few tiny holes in a bottle cap, fill the bottle with water and place it upside down near the roots.

The water seeps out gradually, helping plants stay moist during hot Indian summers without daily watering.
Create Hanging Herb Planters
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Create Hanging Herb Planters
Plastic bottles can easily be converted into hanging planters for mint, coriander, spinach and other herbs.

Hang them on a balcony grill, terrace wall or sunny window to create a compact kitchen garden even in small apartments.
Protect Seedlings From Stray Animals
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Protect Seedlings From Stray Animals
Young plants are often damaged by birds, squirrels or curious pets.

Cut the bottom off a large plastic bottle and place it over a seedling like a mini greenhouse. It protects the plant while allowing sunlight and air to enter.
Build A Handy Garden Scoop
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Build A Handy Garden Scoop
Cut a large plastic bottle diagonally to create a scoop.

Use it for transferring soil, compost, cocopeat or fertiliser without buying additional gardening tools.
Use Bottles As Plant Labels
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Use Bottles As Plant Labels
Cut plastic bottles into strips and write plant names using a permanent marker.

These homemade labels are waterproof, durable and much cheaper than store-bought garden markers.
Grow Leafy Vegetables Vertically
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Grow Leafy Vegetables Vertically
Large plastic bottles can be mounted horizontally on walls or railings to create a vertical garden.

This is an excellent way to grow spinach, lettuce, methi and other greens in small urban homes where space is limited.

(Disclaimer: This story is for educational purposes alone and should not be considered as professional medical advice and does not substitute any medical advice.)
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