Making Newspaper Seed Pots: What Paper to Use and How Long They Last

Newspaper pots are a free, biodegradable alternative to plastic cells. But not all newspaper is safe, and longevity depends on conditions.

Which Newspaper Is Safe?

• Black-and-white newsprint only. Soy-based inks used for standard text are non-toxic and break down quickly.
• Avoid glossy inserts, colored comics, and magazine pages. These may contain heavy metals, chlorine-bleached fibers, or synthetic coatings that persist in soil and can inhibit seedling growth.

How to Make Them

1. Wrap a 4–5 inch wide newspaper strip around a cylindrical form (a jar, can, or commercial pot maker).
2. Fold the bottom over to create a base.
3. Slide off the form. Fill with moist seed-starting mix.

Durability and Transplanting

• Lifespan: 4–6 weeks indoors; 2–4 weeks outdoors in moist soil.
• Plant pot and all. The paper decomposes in situ—roots penetrate the walls.
• Tip: Tear off the bottom inch before planting to ensure root egress if the paper hasn't softened.

Pro Tips

• Use a pot maker ($10–15) for uniform, sturdy pots.
• Don't overwater—soggy paper collapses.
• Group pots in a tray for stability and bottom-watering.

Newspaper pots are a great sustainable hack—just stick to plain newsprint and transplant before they turn to mush.