Reflecting light for seedlings with aluminum foil

You may be wondering why I have included a picture of aluminum foil today. Although it is wonderful for cooking - and making funny hats to keep the aliens away - it's also great when it comes to starting seeds.


I'd like to share two simple techniques today. You can choose the one that works best for you.


   Method One - Reflecting Sunlight  for Seedlings with Aluminum Foil 

• Line the inside of a box with aluminum foil with the shiny side facing out. Use tape or glue to secure the foil to the box. 
• Fill the bottom of the box with soil and plant your seedlings in the box, or leave the bottom empty and set your plant pots in the box.
• Cover the top of the box with plastic wrap and place in a warm place until the seeds germinate.
• Once the seeds germinate, move them to bright, indirect light. 
• Because the light is reflected from all sides, seedlings grow straight and don't bend towards the sun, eliminating the need to turn your seedlings every day.
•  If you choose this method, make sure the sides of the box are several inches above the top of the seedlings and avoid setting them in direct sunlight, as this may cause the box to overheat  injure your seedlings.

         Method Two - Aluminum Foil Light Box with Plant Light

• Create a simple light box by lining the inside of a box with aluminum foil. Secure the foil with tape or glue.
• Set the box so that the open end faces out and the side of the box forms the top.
•  Cut three vent holes on the sides and back of the box, about two inches from the top. Holes should be approximately 1 1/2 inches by 5 inches. This allows excess heat to escape and provides air circulation to your seedlings.
• Cut a hole in the 'top' center of the box large enough to insert a light socket. Slip the socket through the hole and reinforce the cardboard around the hole with a section of a paper plate or duct tape.
•  Screw the plant light into the socket from inside the box.
•  Place your seedlings in the 'bottom' of the box. 
• Hang a sheet of aluminum foil over the 'front' of the box.
• Turn the light on for 12 to 16 hours a day.

                                                          Until next time . . . HAPPY GARDENING!

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