I was on another Garden site and came across this post.

Cardboard garden update

The individual who posted spread layers of cardboard about an inch thick - 4 or 5 layers. He then put down cardboard boxes that were not flattened. They were about 30 inches square and 18 inches deep.

In the bottom of the boxes, he put two inches of newspaper and composted leaves and chicken bedding on top of that. He then filled them to within three inches of the top and planted seeds.

He reported he had spinach and kale sprouting and his garlic was up and growing. He also said his cabbages were taking off.

The post was made on 11/11/05 and I don't know what part of the country he was from.

He was concerned about the boxes holding up and some replies had them falling apart etc.

After reading the post I had to reply in this self explanatory way and also adding an idea that came from his post:

See what you think?

Hi DayBird and ALL!

What a great idea. Plus its always interesting how sites like this can always add to your pleasure.

I've been composting cardboard for some time. Something happened last spring that I tried that may help you in your endeavor.

I was overwhelmed with compost material and I had this great idea of putting two large cardboard boxes inside of each other with the flaps turned up and or down and tied the top and bottom flaps with nylon. I also tied the middle in order to give the cartons strength.

As the cartons became filled and the composted material hardened within, I pulled the boxes up off the ground. I also used 4 wooden stakes that I put in the corners for support.

Anyway, it worked for a pretty good length of time until the cartons eventually began to break down due to the heavy weight of compost and rain.

But in turn you gave me another great idea (I think). What a super way to start seedlings that have to be transplanted. Put the seeds in a smaller carton (using the best composted soil you have) and when their ready to transplant, DON"T DIG. Just gently tear the cardboard carton apart and tweak the seedlings out without damaging any roots.

Thanks for "YOUR IDEA". I can't wait to try it next spring.

Has anyone tried this sort of seedling starter idea in the past?

Jim