How to Plant Flower Bulbs Using Egg Cartons: Easy DIY Gardening Hack

Looking for a simple, sustainable way to start your flower bulbs this season? Don’t toss those egg cartons — turn them into biodegradable bulb planters!
It’s an easy DIY trick that saves space, promotes recycling, and helps your bulbs sprout strong and healthy roots before moving into the garden.

Why Use Egg Cartons for Bulbs?
Egg cartons — especially cardboard ones — are eco-friendly mini seed starters.
They’re lightweight, biodegradable, and naturally decompose once placed in the soil.
Plus, they provide a cozy, structured space for each bulb to grow without overcrowding.

Benefits:
100% biodegradable and compostable
Retains moisture while allowing drainage
Practically free — you’re reusing kitchen waste
Perfect for indoor pre-planting or small garden spaces

What You Need:
Cardboard egg cartons (avoid plastic or Styrofoam)
Potting soil or compost mix
Flower bulbs (tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, or crocuses work best)
A spray bottle or watering can
A tray or plate to catch excess water

Step-by-Step: Planting Flower Bulbs in Egg Cartons
Prepare the Carton:
Cut the top lid off your egg carton and place the base (with egg cups) on a tray.
Poke a tiny hole in the bottom of each section for drainage.

Add Soil:
Fill each egg cup about three-quarters full with moist potting soil.
Don’t pack it too tightly — bulbs need soft, airy soil to breathe.

Plant the Bulbs:
Place one bulb in each section, pointy end up, and cover it lightly with soil (just enough to hide it).
Press gently to secure.

Water Lightly:
Mist the soil with water until it’s evenly damp — not soaked.
Keep the carton in a cool, sunny spot or near a window.

Transplant When Ready:
Once your bulbs start to sprout roots or small shoots, plant the entire egg cup directly into the garden soil.
The cardboard will decompose naturally, enriching the soil as it breaks down.

Best Bulbs to Use for This Method
Tulips
Daffodils
Hyacinths
Crocuses
Alliums
They all thrive when pre-started indoors and can easily transition to outdoor beds once the frost has passed.

Sustainability Bonus
This small gardening trick helps reduce waste and plastic use while giving your garden a healthy start.
It’s perfect for families, beginner gardeners, or anyone looking for an eco-friendly gardening project that truly makes a difference.

Planting flower bulbs in egg cartons is the perfect mix of creativity, sustainability, and practicality.
It’s simple enough for beginners and a wonderful way to teach kids about gardening and recycling.
Next time you finish a dozen eggs — don’t throw that carton away. Fill it with life!