HOW-TO: Make seed tapes

[damummis]

Every year planting small seeds can be a big pain in the back. Seed tape is my answer. However it can get expensive if bought. My solution, make your own.

You need :
Paper towels
Cornstarch glue
squeeze bottle
stylus

First I make the glue. Mix 1/2 Cup cornstarch with 1Cup water. Cook in small pot till thick, bubbly and opaque. Use a whisk and stir constantly to reduce clumping.

Next I put it in a squeeze bottle. You can use a Ziploc with the corner cut off.

While that cools I tear off enough paper towels to make a row. Fold and cut 1/2" strips with my rotary cutter.

Lay out strips on a work surface and squeeze a line of glue.

Smear the glue on the paper towel.

With a dot of glue on the stylus. Toothpick, pencil or other pointy object works. Pick up seed with stylus and dot on strip.

When strip is complete move it somewhere to dry. If you don't you won't be able to move it because it will dry in place. Trust me.

This was posted on BYC but at the request of one Nifty guy here it is

 

[ninnymary]

Wow Damummis! That is so easy to understand! Your instructions are so clear and the pictures are wonderful! It makes it easy even for us with "hard heads" to understand! Yeah!!!!

Thanks so much!
Mary

p.s. I'm just beginning to veggie garden. I'm not at the stage to do seed tapes yet. But I know that one day I will and will certainly look this thread up.

 

[damummis]

An idea was given to me from Saddina from BYC to use a whole sheet of papertowel if you are doing sq. ft. gardening.

Great idea, huh.

 

[OaklandCityFarmer]

Genius!

Wow, going to try this tonight!

Thanks for sharing!

 

[vfem]

You rock.... and I just gotta say I LOVE the squeeze bottle idea...

you want to come redo mine!?!?!!?

 

[journey11]

Very cool! I am definitely going to try this. Looks like fun even!

Now, when you plant it, are there any special instructions?

 

[digitS']

Very nicely done !

Steve

 

[Hattie the Hen]

Hi damummis,

Thanks for the very clear instructions. I am going to try it on my carrots this year -- I am usually rubbish at growing them.......!!


:rose Hattie :rose

 

[ducks4you]

Rock ON, damummis !! Couldn't be CLEARER with those photos--thanks!

 

[HunkieDorie23]

Rock ON, damummis !! Couldn't be CLEARER with those photos--thanks!

Ditto and your nails look great for a gardener too. Mine never look that good even when I wear gloves.