The protected environment is the perfect answer for people who want to grow a few plants from seed or cuttings, but are limited for space.

This is a great way to re-use many types of plastic containers and will hopefully keep them out of the landfills. The mini propagator is small enough to fit on any windowsill and can even be left in the greenhouse without watering for a long time, as the condensation that builds up runs down the sides back into the soil.

It comes with it’s own control switch too. If the temperature needs to be reduced or air circulation increased, it’s just a simple job of unscrewing the lid!

Step 1 When you have finished with your plastic milk container (you can substitute this for any drinks bottle) give it a good wash inside and out. Cut the bottle in two leaving more room on the top section for air circulation.

Step 2 Cut two tags either side of the top section to a depth of about 1 inch (2.5 cm). This helps to keep the lid in place.

Step 3 Fill the bottom section with good quality potting compost or sterilised soil. Tamp this down so there is a 1inch gap between the soil and the top of the container.

Step 4 Sow your seeds or place cuttings into the soil.

Step 5 Carefully place the lid over the base, (putting the top part inside the base to allow condensation to run back down to the soil) and let the tags hold the lid firmly in place.

Check the mini propagator often to make sure your seeds are growing well. When they have germinated or the cuttings have rooted, take off the lid to harden them off before transplanting out into larger pots or outdoors.

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Make one from bottles
written by Things to make, August 19, 2010

THINGS TO MAKE AND DO - A propagator for small plants or seedlings

A propagator for small plants or seedlings
You need:
* 2 x 1.5 or 2 litre plastic soft drink bottles (labels removed), preferably including one with a coloured base
* A piece of wick
* Some soil, compost or growing mixture
* Water

To remove the label cleanly:
* Fill the bottle with hot water ( not too hot, or it will buckle).
* Screw the cap back on the bottle and in a short time the label should peel off.
* Empty the water out of the bottle.
SAFETY NOTES!
1. Always be very careful when working with hot water.
2. Sharp scissors have to be used to cut the bottles, if you have a ragged cut edge on the bottle it may scratch fingers and hands. Care should be taken at all times.
METHOD
1. Cut a 1.5 or 2 litre transparent plastic bottle at the widest point
2. Cut a slit in the cap. Thread a wick of absorbent cloth through to make a wick
3. Add water and rest the inverted top of the bottle in the base. Add soil and your plants.
4. Cut another identical bottle slightly above the "shoulder" and place on top as a propagator. Make holes in the screw cap (or leave it off) to allow air to circulate.

See the website of diagrams..(always easier to understand)

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