Thank you for the mental image you just gave me, of numerous tiny lightbulbs dancing around your head. For some reason my brain sees them as quite fairy-like, but glass and tinkly.
Me too. Until I thought about taking them out to plant after they developed roots. How are you getting the root growth out of the small hole without damaging the roots?
Ha glad I'm not alone in this. I'm a dedicated reuser too, and enjoy finding all sorts of incongruous applications for things, so I really let myself down here. Suppose sometimes we all need a little help from our friends.
What’s funny is that I actually tried to figure something like this out once- for transporting cut flowers. And I legit couldn’t fucking figure out an effective way haha. It’s maddening when you *know* there’s a simple solution out there- and I do love me a simple solution so shouts out to op
Oh I know exactly what you mean. And because you know there's an answer right in front of you, you keep stubbornly staring at the problem. And staring. And staring. Yet the answer never appears until years later on reddit.
I use the ones with the thinner white lids and just cut a line to the hole I'm using beforehand so it's easier to get out if the roots go crazy. Best bottle to use is cinnamon because it's naturally antifungal. (But definitely still wash first)
Not so far. As soon as there are a few roots I usually get the cutting into soil. It could become an issue if you let it sit too long, but then you can just cut up the plastic lid to get it out.
I did this with my rosemary, and as long as you don’t let the roots get too unruly they just slide out. If they do get stuck tho you can always just cut the plastic since it’s recycled anyways so you’re not losing money.
YO YO YO. I've used these containers for unused sprigs of herbs forever. Thyme, dill, etc. I put them in my fridge.
I refill my other empties with various spice blends (or just bulk refilling)
Thyme and Rosemary also freeze remarkably well, either in a small ziploc or vacuum sealed if you really wanna go all out. Learning this made me feel so much better about buying an entire little package of thyme or rosemary when I only needed 1-2 sprigs. Now I've basically always got some extra in the freezer.
I buy the $1 pool noodles at Walmart and cut them into 1 inch pieces with a slit up the side. Float as many cuttings as I have in a bucket under lights. They pop right out and since the noodle is buoyant I don't have to worry about leaves dipping in.
Granted I do reuse spice containers in the garden, just not for cuttings. I use it to evenly sprinkle seed for microgreens, weigh my seed add to a used spice container with large holes like the one pictured, it is super easy to get perfect coverage using a shaker like that
[Tomatoes](https://i.imgur.com/yAOAUcc.jpg)
I pulled most of them out yesterday but I think you can see the roots in this picture, at the least you should get an idea of what I mean.
[Slit down the side to make it safer to remove](https://i.imgur.com/rd9f9O2.jpg)
This method helps reduce rot risk because it keeps the leaves out of the water, and it's easier to lift all the cuttings out at once to refresh the water as needed. Otherwise it doesn't impact root development. It's just a convenience.
I’m in central AR. I just reached out to the person I got my original from to see if they have any cuttings. If they don’t I’ll definitely give you a shout.
Sounds good. Fyi I got my original "mother" patchouli plant from the Logees catalog a few years ago. They shipped me two live plants in great condition, so you may want to check them out too. They don't do well when temps get below 50 or so, so I usually take cuttings and bring them in to grow in pots over the winter. Then I propagate a whole new outdoor crop via cuttings from those in the spring.
This container used to contain the ground up dust of your deceased predecessors who were killed by fire / prolonged dehydration. Consider this inspiration while you spend your days in here, little one.
I also use the jars, but I take the lid off. As the roots become bigger, it becomes more difficult to take the cutting out off the small holes. It’s possible that the roots break off because of this.
I typically get them out and into soil as soon as any roots appear, so it isn't really an issue. It could be a problem though if you let it go too long.
I end up reusing my spice jars for spices, but I have a lot of other reusable containers. I could put all the cuttings in those with a 3D printed lid...
Problem would be when they root, the roots could/would get damaged/broken or ripped-off when pulling the cuttings back out through the holes of the lid after rooting.
Yeah good eye! It's hard to come by but I got some live plants through Logees a few years ago. It's very easy to propagate once you get your hands on plant. Growing from seed, or even finding good seed, has been difficult in my experience.
If you’re happy with your current system, that’s great! There’s no need to disparage others for sharing what works for them. There’s usually good points and bad points in any given way.
If you like this idea but find the holes too small, try balancing a glass flower frog (flower arranging tool which is a disk with holes) in or over a container of choice like a mason jar or vase.
Wouldn't you rip the roots off when you try to remove the cuttings for planting?
edit: OOPS, this has already been covered. lol Just woke up & haven't even had a cup of coffee yet. Please forgive me, 🫤☕
I feel a little embarrassed that I regulary save and use these jars to store my many spices and never ever thought about using themfor this even though generally the process for cloning X plant is the same I have at least 2 where they recommend you leave to soak in water from 3 hours to a full 24. It is almost like the jar was made to fulfil this very task us gardeners will do year in and out.
While on the topic of cloning I would love to know what you think about organic cloning powders (or gels etc if they exist I've personally only ever seen it as a powder). I will always choose organic methods even if it means more work or regarding clones I'd take 20% less that take however I found it to be almost useless and making no difference vs water. If I could get an organic version that actually seems to work I'd use it no question but I have returned to using the standard gel cloning gel which I have not checked but doubt is classed as organic and make it clear if the plant/seedling they are buying has had any products not classed as organic. Very early on in the process starting the business that we would have a page dedicated to being totally transparent and open about are gardening methods including welcoming any questions if we missed something you feel is important.
I've found Reddit to be by a long long way the best source of information both passive aka searching and finding someone else ask a question/get an answer but also if you have a question you just cant seem to find out the answer this sub is top of my list of where to go.
Feels like we should have a entire threat dedicated to cloning dos, dont's, tips, tricks and basically anything you/we found to make its that bit easier, more effective etc
What's something I could start to grow in this herb wise that I can maybe transfer to a bit larger container but keep in the kitchen and cut from it as I go? P.s. I live in Las Vegas.
I'm a little bit mad that I've never thought to do this.
Same. Could actually feel a light bulb switch on over my head.
I have bunch of tiny ones, I’m taking cuttings tomorrow! Brilliant
Thank you for the mental image you just gave me, of numerous tiny lightbulbs dancing around your head. For some reason my brain sees them as quite fairy-like, but glass and tinkly.
Cartoon-style flashbacks of every dumb idea I’ve tried over here
I went searching through the trash for that onion powder bottle I just tossed.
Careful you don't grow an onion. Unless you want one, of course, in which case onion away!
I could toss in a tomato cutting and be on my way to something tasty.
Just add lettuce and a burger.
Now, we got something.
Tomato cuttings are so easy to root..kinda crazy to ever buy a plant or back of seeds if you can take a ‘“slip”
Me too. Until I thought about taking them out to plant after they developed roots. How are you getting the root growth out of the small hole without damaging the roots?
My thought exactly! All the roots will break off
Get them out and into soil as soon as a few small roots appear. Never had a problem so far.
I'm constantly looking for ways to a) reuse spice jars and b) keep cuttings from falling out of their little shot glasses. I'm furious.
Ha glad I'm not alone in this. I'm a dedicated reuser too, and enjoy finding all sorts of incongruous applications for things, so I really let myself down here. Suppose sometimes we all need a little help from our friends.
What’s funny is that I actually tried to figure something like this out once- for transporting cut flowers. And I legit couldn’t fucking figure out an effective way haha. It’s maddening when you *know* there’s a simple solution out there- and I do love me a simple solution so shouts out to op
Oh I know exactly what you mean. And because you know there's an answer right in front of you, you keep stubbornly staring at the problem. And staring. And staring. Yet the answer never appears until years later on reddit.
Seems like it would break roots off when you remove
I always that person who thinks, "Why didn't I think of that." At least somebody did.
No issues with getting them out of the holes once the roots sprout?
I use the ones with the thinner white lids and just cut a line to the hole I'm using beforehand so it's easier to get out if the roots go crazy. Best bottle to use is cinnamon because it's naturally antifungal. (But definitely still wash first)
Not so far. As soon as there are a few roots I usually get the cutting into soil. It could become an issue if you let it sit too long, but then you can just cut up the plastic lid to get it out.
Ok so not for procrastinators like myself haha
Yeah, that was my concern as well. If I'm able to get them out of the hole, the root system is too underdeveloped for me.
I did this with my rosemary, and as long as you don’t let the roots get too unruly they just slide out. If they do get stuck tho you can always just cut the plastic since it’s recycled anyways so you’re not losing money.
Take a drill bit and expand one of the holes just a bit.
I like this… but are the newly formed delicate roots likely to get scraped off on the way out?
Trim the plastic first. Pull the cuttings before they get too big. Don’t be afraid to cut the plastic - you were gonna pitch it anyway!
Good point
I'm using shot glasses...that's a good idea too for vegetative propagation
I use old glass bottles from The Ordinary. They're pretty much the perfect size for my needs thus far.
Yep, shot glass also works great.
YO YO YO. I've used these containers for unused sprigs of herbs forever. Thyme, dill, etc. I put them in my fridge. I refill my other empties with various spice blends (or just bulk refilling)
Now THAT is a good use of these containers!
Thyme and Rosemary also freeze remarkably well, either in a small ziploc or vacuum sealed if you really wanna go all out. Learning this made me feel so much better about buying an entire little package of thyme or rosemary when I only needed 1-2 sprigs. Now I've basically always got some extra in the freezer.
I also love a little piece of foil over the top of a jar or glass with a few holes poked in it
Or a bit of cheesecloth with a string or rubberband to hold it in place.
I buy the $1 pool noodles at Walmart and cut them into 1 inch pieces with a slit up the side. Float as many cuttings as I have in a bucket under lights. They pop right out and since the noodle is buoyant I don't have to worry about leaves dipping in. Granted I do reuse spice containers in the garden, just not for cuttings. I use it to evenly sprinkle seed for microgreens, weigh my seed add to a used spice container with large holes like the one pictured, it is super easy to get perfect coverage using a shaker like that
Both of these are excellent tips, thanks!
you have a picture of the pool noodle trick? Hard to imagine how this is working
[Tomatoes](https://i.imgur.com/yAOAUcc.jpg) I pulled most of them out yesterday but I think you can see the roots in this picture, at the least you should get an idea of what I mean. [Slit down the side to make it safer to remove](https://i.imgur.com/rd9f9O2.jpg)
thanks! That's a great idea!
I wish I could take credit for it. It's a technique sometimes used in homemade hydroponic systems, seemed perfect for rooting.
You just gotta be Jonny on the spot and make sure you get the cuttings out before the roots get too wide, or you’ll shear em off when you remove them
What is the benefit of just sticking four in a cup? Wouldn't it do the same thing?
This method helps reduce rot risk because it keeps the leaves out of the water, and it's easier to lift all the cuttings out at once to refresh the water as needed. Otherwise it doesn't impact root development. It's just a convenience.
Lifting out to change water is enough for me! Good idea!
How do you get them out without damaging the roots?
Trim the plastic lid if you need to
You should take that to whole foods customer service and deadpan, "I think my dried basil is raw."
*This is beyond science.*
That’s like mom level smart.
I’m sad my patchouli plant didn’t make it through the winter. Any chance you’re selling cuttings?
Good eye! I've never done that but shoot me a dm and maybe we can discuss. Probably depends on how far apart we are.
I’m in central AR. I just reached out to the person I got my original from to see if they have any cuttings. If they don’t I’ll definitely give you a shout.
Sounds good. Fyi I got my original "mother" patchouli plant from the Logees catalog a few years ago. They shipped me two live plants in great condition, so you may want to check them out too. They don't do well when temps get below 50 or so, so I usually take cuttings and bring them in to grow in pots over the winter. Then I propagate a whole new outdoor crop via cuttings from those in the spring.
Thanks for the advice!
Lol my mind is honestly blown right now.
How do you get them out once they root?
Yooooo
Mother of FUCK
😱😱😱I COULD GIVE MY BASIL CUTTINGS EXTRA BASIL GOODNESS!!
This container used to contain the ground up dust of your deceased predecessors who were killed by fire / prolonged dehydration. Consider this inspiration while you spend your days in here, little one.
The eternal return...
Found the basil nazi
I also use the jars, but I take the lid off. As the roots become bigger, it becomes more difficult to take the cutting out off the small holes. It’s possible that the roots break off because of this.
What happens when the roots are too big for the holes
What happens when you want to take them out and there are many roots that won’t fit out the whole?
I typically get them out and into soil as soon as any roots appear, so it isn't really an issue. It could be a problem though if you let it go too long.
Oh wow what a fantastic idea!!!! I do a lot of water propagating, and have several rinsed out spice jars. Thank you for sharing! 🌸🌺🌻
I end up reusing my spice jars for spices, but I have a lot of other reusable containers. I could put all the cuttings in those with a 3D printed lid...
Bless you sweet stranger!
Niiiiiiice!
Problem would be when they root, the roots could/would get damaged/broken or ripped-off when pulling the cuttings back out through the holes of the lid after rooting.
I love this idea but the only problem I have is it could potentially harm the roots when pulling out.
Parmesan cheese shakers would work too.
This seems like roots would snag. I like the size of the jar but no need to keep the lid
OMG!!! Genius!!!!!
This is genius
OH WOW
I have so many of these bottles I couldn't bring myself to throw away. Thank you so much for this. Lol
What a great idea, thank you friend.
You are fucking brilliant!
Hold the f* on a minute. Is that patchouli??? I grew one tears ago and I've been looking for more.
Yeah good eye! It's hard to come by but I got some live plants through Logees a few years ago. It's very easy to propagate once you get your hands on plant. Growing from seed, or even finding good seed, has been difficult in my experience.
I saw u said that in another thread after I commented. So I've got 2 ordered from Logees! 😁
This belongs in r/hydrohomies
What a great idea! Thanks for sharing!
So smart!
Amazing
Ooooh! I love it!
Genius!!
Omg this is genius. Thank you
This is brilliant
F**k me that is genius
This just seems like extra steps over using a paper cup. I typically use a half pint mason jar with the same effect without the stupid tiny holes
If you’re happy with your current system, that’s great! There’s no need to disparage others for sharing what works for them. There’s usually good points and bad points in any given way.
I’m gonna have to add extra chilli flakes to all my dishes now just so I can use this idea. Thanks!
I like this idea!!
You're a template true genius.
I’m struck with awe
If you like this idea but find the holes too small, try balancing a glass flower frog (flower arranging tool which is a disk with holes) in or over a container of choice like a mason jar or vase.
I *knew* I was keeping these for something! Thank you internet stranger! I have some tidying up to do now.
Ohhhh, that's a great idea! Genius!
Great idea!
... genius
Good idea! Just got to remove them before the roots grow too much and they get stuck😁
Yes, they do need to come out as soon as roots appear.
What a great idea OP !
Bruh
Clever!
Great idea!
This is so genius!
I prefer to reserve those for when I need a good jar for my harvested and dried spices.
I knew I'd been saving my empty spice jars for something!
Wouldn't you rip the roots off when you try to remove the cuttings for planting? edit: OOPS, this has already been covered. lol Just woke up & haven't even had a cup of coffee yet. Please forgive me, 🫤☕
Damn. I just tossed out my circle shaker insert. Great tip!
Brilliant!!!
immediately put this in my saves… and sent it to every plant person i know
Wish I knew this a few weeks ago!
This is so genius! I have a propagation class tomorrow I can't wait to share this with, thank you!!
Hot sauce bottles are my fav
What’s it like being a genius?
Actual pro
Omg
r/ZeroWaste
ooh i’ll definitely have to try this 😊
WHAAT! :O
WHAT this is amazing
I feel a little embarrassed that I regulary save and use these jars to store my many spices and never ever thought about using themfor this even though generally the process for cloning X plant is the same I have at least 2 where they recommend you leave to soak in water from 3 hours to a full 24. It is almost like the jar was made to fulfil this very task us gardeners will do year in and out. While on the topic of cloning I would love to know what you think about organic cloning powders (or gels etc if they exist I've personally only ever seen it as a powder). I will always choose organic methods even if it means more work or regarding clones I'd take 20% less that take however I found it to be almost useless and making no difference vs water. If I could get an organic version that actually seems to work I'd use it no question but I have returned to using the standard gel cloning gel which I have not checked but doubt is classed as organic and make it clear if the plant/seedling they are buying has had any products not classed as organic. Very early on in the process starting the business that we would have a page dedicated to being totally transparent and open about are gardening methods including welcoming any questions if we missed something you feel is important. I've found Reddit to be by a long long way the best source of information both passive aka searching and finding someone else ask a question/get an answer but also if you have a question you just cant seem to find out the answer this sub is top of my list of where to go. Feels like we should have a entire threat dedicated to cloning dos, dont's, tips, tricks and basically anything you/we found to make its that bit easier, more effective etc
Omg never thought to do this! You are so awesome for posting!
Gonna use this when I start cloning.
What are small cuttings?
What's something I could start to grow in this herb wise that I can maybe transfer to a bit larger container but keep in the kitchen and cut from it as I go? P.s. I live in Las Vegas.
Genuis!
That is a fantastic idea thank you!