Gardener shares genius way to grow plants in cold weather: 'One of the most low-maintenance ways'

Planting seeds may seem daunting during colder months. However, one savvy gardener shares just how simple winter sowing can be. 

The scoop

Illinois-based gardener Deea (@gardening_with_deea) teaches internet users how to turn empty bottles into mini greenhouses.

@gardening_with_deea Winter sowing seeds #gardening #backyardgarden #gardeningtips #seedstarting #gardentok #gardeninghacks ♬ original sound - Gardening_With_Deea

"Winter sowing is one of the most low-maintenance ways to start seeds," says Deea.

Start by cutting an empty milk jar or plastic soda bottle in half, leaving a hinge. Fill the bottom half of the bottle with soil, placing your seeds on top. Spray the top layer of soil with some water before sealing the bottle shut with some duct tape.

Place the bottle outside with the cap off to allow moisture inside. The container acts as a mini greenhouse, protecting the seeds from the cold temperatures while also warming the soil up and activating seed growth.

For this sowing method, Deea tells TikTokers that cool-weather crops work best. Some of the produce types Deea recommends include kale, broccoli, and cauliflower, as these vegetables will germinate in early spring.

"Another benefit from this is that you're not going to have to harden off these seedlings come spring because they're already used to the elements," says Deea.

How it's helping

Deea's winter sowing hack is teaching people how to successfully grow their own vegetables even when there's snow on the ground. By growing your own food, you not only save money on groceries but also reduce the demand for mass-produced, globally shipped produce. In fact, an investment of just $70 can yield $600 worth of produce each year.

Gardening isn't just beneficial for your wallet, though. Researchers have found that people who garden on a consistent basis are healthier, both mentally and physically.

What is the biggest reason you don't grow food at home? Not enough time Not enough space It seems too hard I have a garden already Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

What's more, Deea's hack is also encouraging gardeners to repurpose containers, minimizing plastic waste. 

What everyone's saying

TikTokers appreciated the reminder to start winter sowing and were excited to learn the hack.

"I need to start some of my own, it's a fun method!" responded one user.

"First year giving this a try," wrote another TikToker.

"Love this idea!" wrote a third commenter.

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