As recycling our household waste becomes increasingly important, a gardening specialist has shared a clever method for reusing empty milk cartons.
Simon Akeroyd, who has written more than 30 books on gardening, demonstrated how these containers can be transformed into a makeshift watering can.
He used TikTok to outline his straightforward step-by-step instructions. First, pierce the milk carton’s lid multiple times with the tip of a biro pen to fashion the sprinkler head, also referred to as a rose.
Simon then topped up the carton with water before fixing the freshly-made nozzle back into place. It really is as simple as that!
Simon explained: “The nozzle creates a gentle spray that won’t wash your seeds or tiny seedlings away. Enjoy your free watering can!”
Responding to the post, numerous TikTok users applauded the suggestion. “This is a great idea to save the water while I’m waiting for the hot tap to run hot,” one person declared.
A second joked: “Love it. I broke hers by accident, she was fuming and I went and bought another. Could have just done this!”
A third agreed, pondering: “Why didn’t I think of this for watering my seeds instead of stood there for hours spraying them?”
Whilst a fourth TikTok user advised: “I’ve also cut the top section off a few to make funnel with a handle for various different applications… and the lower portion makes a free flower pot or container so two uses from one separated bottle.”
1) Water based on conditions, not the calendar
May often flips between warm, drying days and cooler, wet spells. The right frequency depends on the following factors:
- temperature and wind (wind dries pots fast)
- rainfall
- soil type (sandy dries quicker; clay holds water)
- whether plants are in pots (pots dry quicker than beds)
2) Use the “finger test” (works for most plants)
This helps you to establish whether your plants need more moisture or not, so be sure to follow these two rules:
- In the ground (borders/veg beds): if the top 3–5 cm is dry, water.
- In pots: if the top 2–3 cm is dry (or the pot feels light), water.
3) Water deeply but less often
Aim for a thorough soak so water reaches roots, then let the surface dry a bit before the next watering. Light daily sprinkles encourage shallow roots and can increase stress in warm spells.
4) Best time of day
Early morning is ideal (less evaporation, plants are ready for the day). Evening is second-best, but avoid repeatedly wetting leaves overnight if mildew is a known issue.
5) Pots need much closer attention in May
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In warm, bright weather, many pots may need watering every 1–3 days. Check hanging baskets and small containers daily (they dry fastest).
Make sure containers drain freely – and don’t leave pots sitting in water unless they’re true bog plants.