While I start seeds and grow seedlings in many ways, the double cup method is one of my preferred methods for growing pepper seedlings. It is simple to set up, keeps me from overwatering, and the cups are reusable. I like the plastic cups as they are sturdier than the cheaper plastic seed starting trays. While this post focuses on explaining my preferred method, you can grow seedlings in just about any type of container if it has adequate drainage.
I use store-brand plastic cups. They come in a variety of colors, are inexpensive, and reusable. I suggest not using clear plastic cups. Light shining directly on the roots will make for a miserable plant. I use the standard red cup in 16- or 18-ounce sizes. I grow many seedlings; therefore, I buy the 100-200 count size package. Everyone’s needs will be different. You may have some leftovers from a party, or you can pick up a small 20-count package anywhere, possibly even at your local dollar store. If you need to start 10 seedlings, you would need 20 cups.
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Materials Needed
- Seed Starting Mix
- Plastic Cups (16-18oz size)
- Seedlings
- Soldering Iron/Scissors/Knife
- Labels/Paper
- Marker/Pen
- Small Pebbles
Directions
- Start with 2 of your plastic cups. When completed, 1 cup will sit inside the other.
- Put a few small rocks or pebbles in the bottom cup. This will allow the inner cup to slide down and sit on top of the pebbles, allowing room for drainage.
- Put a label on the outside of the bottom cup, using your marker to write the plant name and the date.
- Take your inner cup and use your soldering iron (or sharp instrument) to put drainage holes in the bottom of the cup.
- .Fill the inner cup with seed starting mix. I always moisten my mix ahead of time. As I put the pre-moistened mix in the cup, I gently tap the cup on the table so that the soil settles down to the bottom, allowing more soil to fit into the cup. If you followed the Coffee Filter and Baggie Germination Method, plant the germinated seeds with the little roots facing down.
Watering
I prefer to water my plants from the bottom to avoid Fungus Gnats and keep my plants happy but not soggy. Peppers and Tomatoes do not like wet feet! No plant does. The seedlings should grow strong if adequately cared for. Once they sprout through the soil, provide adequate light for the type of plant you are growing. This could be a south-facing window with plenty of good sunlight or an indoor grow light. I add water to the bottom cup, which is absorbed through the drainage holes of the inner cup. You will find that your plants may show roots peeking out of those drain holes by the time they are ready to go outside.
Transfer the plant to an outdoor garden or permanent container when it is the proper planting time in your area. Be sure to harden off your plants by slowly allowing them short times outside, starting in a shaded area, and gradually introducing the plant to the sun so you do not shock and kill your plant. I started my seedlings in early January for planting outside in my area of NC in April. I wanted a good head start on my hot peppers, which tend to take longer to grow, and it enables me to have good strong plants with nice root systems.
With the roots sticking out from the holes do you plant the cup out side or do you cut the cup so the roots can spread?
I take the plant out of the cup when it is time to plant and you can reuse the cup.
I am currently trying this method for the first time for my pepers and tomatoes i just ip potted them. How much water do you put in the second cup and how often?
About an inch and let the plant soak them up. The great thing about this method is that you can add or dump water out of the bottom cup.
How do I know when to add water to the second cup=also can I use a clear cup to observe the water drainage
You can definitely use a clear cup for the outer one. You can feel the soil with your finger. If the soil is dry, the first 2 inches down, put some water in the bottom cup. How much and often you water depends on what you are growing. I use this method for starting peppers. Peppers will generally let you know when they need water by dropping slightly.
Hello,
I use the 2 cup method and generally get a lot of roots sticking out of the bottom of the cup. My question is, “Do I need to keep the roots that are sticking out wet by adding a small amount of water, even though the soil is damp enough?”
Thanks
No, you don’t. Only water when needed. Roots sticking out are normal and keeping water in the cup could cause root rot. Just water as needed and after 15-20 minutes empty any water left in cup. Sounds like you have a great root system going!
I just started gardening this year. All my cups are setup this way – but I’m confused/hesitant about watering. I want to water from bottom.
Do I put it in bottom cup? And for how long? How often? (I understand it’s based on soil and plant) but is there anything recommended?
Or should I be top watering?
If you are set up with the double cups then put your water in the bottom cups. This lets the plants take up as much as they need. I would put about an 1 inch of water in to start. after an hour if there is water in bottom cup you can empty but as the plants get bigger that should be enough. I would say twice per week for things like peppers and tomatoes. You will be able to tell when it needs water based on how heavy the top cup is. The drier the soil the lighter it will be.
How much potting soil in the inner cup is recommended for Zinnia seeds, and how much water in outer cup is recommended for Zinnia seeds? How long should the inner cup set in the outer cup of water?