Upcycling ideasReader submitted

I do have a reusable coffee mug but being busy and a bit disorganised, I am guilty of buying to-go coffee from time to time. But I am allaying my guilt by reusing disposable coffee cups in my garden.

I find them ideal for potting seedlings. They are the perfect size, hold water well and last long enough for seedlings to grow to a decent size. They are especially useful for growing your own brassicas from seeds. Young cauliflowers, broccoli and cabbages look identical and putting them in different pots (or coffee cups) is the only way of identifying them come planting time.

Black meat trays are also a pet hate of mine. Unfortunately there is no butcher around where I live so I am at the mercy of supermarkets. Mince trays from Countdown are deep enough to be repurposed as seedling trays. They hold water well and black Styrofoam keeps the soil warm. I found them perfect for raising lettuces (with or without the egg tray). Since I always sow too many lettuce seeds, I can give away the surplus of 'toddler seedlings' without asking for the pot back. After planting toddler lettuce out in my garden, I wash and reuse my trays. My oldest one is four years old now and still in perfect condition. After all, they are designed to last... well... forever.

Regards
Magda

PS. Love your magazine!