Although we don't often talk about soda bottles helping the environment — usually they're doing the opposite — that's exactly what they're doing here. There are still some chilly nights around the country and small annuals can be at risk for frost. Worry no longer with this simple trick.
By simply removing the top of a soda bottle and placing it over the soil you're helping your small tender plants to retain precious humidity and warmth. You don't have to worry about messy bags or tenting them with plastic. This quick trick is a simple fix and best of all, you can always use the tops later for funnels if you so desire!
How do you keep your plants from feeling those chilly nights? Share what works for you in the comments.
We saw this idea on the Swedish blog Blomsterverkstad ("Flower Workshop") written by Minna, a gardening lover. Check her blog for more inspiration or her book Thriving Ideas.
(Image: Blomsterverkstad)
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What a coincidence, I did this to my vegetables yesterday in the garden. Would you recommend removing the bottle cap? Plenty of rain can get to the roots as they are in an open vegetable patch...
Sofa bottle, eh?
@Terry: you wouldn't want to create a sealed environment by leaving the cap on, need air to circulate and whatnot.
This is pretty clever, and I wish I'd known about it 2 days ago before an unexpected frost killed all my petunias :(
Yes, I do this as well. I also start seeds in a seed tray covered with plastic wrap to keep them warm and help the soil retain moisture.
Great idea! Too bad I don't drink soda...
Soda bottles! What an genius idea! Love it! What about planning herbs in your outdoor garden?
http://www.eieihome.com/blog/how-to-plan-and-plant-your-own-herb-garden.html
When you water each plant....are you afraid that there will be mold growing around the soda bottle if you dont clean it weekly?