Used paper rolls — the cardboard tubes left behind from toilet paper or paper towels — are often tossed in the trash or at best, the recycling bin. But what many people don’t realize is that these humble cardboard tubes can become one of the most useful and eco-friendly tools in your home and garden. In fact, they can be worth their weight in gold when it comes to planting, propagating, composting, and more.

Here’s how you can reuse paper rolls in clever ways that benefit your plants, save money, and reduce household waste.

1. Biodegradable Seed Starters

One of the most practical ways to use paper rolls is as biodegradable seedling pots. They provide an excellent starting environment for seeds, and once the seedlings are strong enough, you can transplant them directly into the soil — tube and all — without disturbing the roots.

How to make them:

  • Take a paper roll and cut it in half.

  • Make 4 small slits on one end and fold them inward to form a bottom.

  • Fill the tube with potting mix and plant your seed.

  • Place the rolls in a tray to catch water and keep them upright.

Over time, the roll will decompose in the soil, adding organic material and minimizing transplant shock for the young plant.

2. Root Trainers for Deep-Growing Plants

Plants like beans, peas, sunflowers, or even tomatoes develop long taproots. Paper rolls are perfect for training these roots vertically because they allow for depth in a compact form. Since the rolls are biodegradable, they can go straight into the garden or a larger pot when the seedlings are ready.

Tip: Be sure to keep them moist to avoid the cardboard drying out too much and drawing moisture away from the soil.

3. Compost Boosters

Cardboard rolls are carbon-rich, or “brown” materials, which are essential for balancing the nitrogen-heavy “green” items in your compost pile. When shredded or cut into small pieces, paper rolls help aerate the compost and absorb excess moisture, speeding up the decomposition process.

How to use:

  • Tear the roll into small bits.

  • Mix them with vegetable scraps, grass clippings, and garden waste.

  • They’ll break down naturally and contribute to a rich, crumbly compost ideal for nourishing your garden.

4. Natural Mulch for Moisture Retention

Used as mulch, paper rolls help retain moisture in the soil and suppress weed growth. Simply flatten or cut them into rings and place them around the base of plants. Cover them with grass clippings or bark to keep them in place and improve their appearance.

This method helps prevent evaporation on hot days and minimizes the need for constant watering.

5. Protect Young Plants from Pests

Seedlings and delicate stems can easily fall victim to cutworms, snails, and other garden pests. Paper rolls act as effective collars or protective barriers when placed around young plants. They form a physical shield that discourages pests without the need for chemical repellents.

Instructions:

  • Slice a roll lengthwise and wrap it gently around the base of a plant.

  • Push it slightly into the soil so it stays upright and deters crawling insects.

6. DIY Plant Labels

For a simple and free way to label your seedlings, cut strips from paper rolls and write plant names on them. While they won’t last forever, they’re perfect for short-term indoor or greenhouse use and can be composted later.

7. Encourage Beneficial Insects

Rolled-up tubes can become a shelter for beneficial garden insects such as ladybugs and solitary bees. Bundle several rolls together, tie them with natural twine, and hang them in a shaded corner of the garden. These small structures act as insect hotels, supporting biodiversity and natural pest control in your green space.

Environmental and Practical Benefits

Using paper rolls in the garden is not just practical but also sustainable. Instead of ending up in a landfill, these rolls can serve multiple purposes that align with low-waste and eco-conscious gardening practices.

Benefits include:

  • Zero-cost plant care tools

  • Reduced plastic use in seed starting

  • Improved compost quality

  • Pest protection without chemicals

  • Reduced water evaporation and weed control

Final Thoughts

What many see as garbage is actually a gardener’s treasure. Used paper rolls are simple yet versatile tools that can play a major role in your planting success. Whether you’re starting seeds, improving compost, or protecting delicate plants, these small cardboard cylinders offer big benefits.

So, the next time you finish a roll of paper towels or toilet paper, don’t throw it away. Set it aside for your next garden project — your plants (and the planet) will thank you.

jardin