February 17, 2026

Starting Seeds in Dollar Tubs

An easy and fast way to germinate seeds for Spring planting


I am a direct seed planter, but every year I attempt to start a few indoors.  Like most gardeners, getting an early start has advantages.

Since I lost my lettuce crop in our ice storm I decided to prepare for an early spring crop. The seeds are from last year and these dollar tubs caught my attention.

We have been using them for a propagation project, and I started wondering how they might work for germinating seeds.  

After planting one tub and experiencing a three-day germination, I was blown away.

Thinning and transplanting comes next, but before that happens let's take a look at how this came together so maybe you can give it a try.

Garden Supplies 

      • Plastic wash tub
      • One cookie sheet
      • One large towel 
      • Heating pad
      • Heirloom seeds
      • Healthy soil mix
      • Drill and bit

Preparing the dollar tub for planting.

Getting Started to Germinate Seeds

      • Purchase tub at any dollar store.
      • Drill 16 holes in the bottom for drainage.
      • Fill bottom with crumbled leaves.
      • Fill tub halfway with soil and place on cookie sheet.
      • In four rows add each type of seed.
      • Cover seeds with additional soil and lightly water.
      • Cover heating pad with towel place tray and tub on top.
      •  Set heat on low for five to eight hours a day.
      • Water as needed, they cannot dry out.
      • Once they germinate get them in the light.  
Keep in mind our temperatures here in zone 8 have been between 60 and 70 degrees.  You may need a grow light or place them inside your greenhouse after they germinate if outside conditions are cold.


An excellent tool for germinating seeds for spring planting.


I am beyond excited to begin transplanting because life is just better with Italian lettuce. 

This is my early spring lettuce, also known as a cool crop and they have been soaking in the sun since germination.
 
I am still a little shocked at how quickly this worked, success is an understatement and now I am off to select additional seeds and prepare a couple more tubs.

Starting seeds in dollar tubs just might be what I have been seeking for many years.  It's quick, allows me to be extremely hands off and I can use the outdoors to my benefit.  

Give it a try and let me know how it worked for you.

Encouraging Goodness,
Carole West
  
 

Garden Up Green - Learn to Grow in Raised Beds

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