Randy Chandler
Cheesecloth is a versatile material with a variety of uses, including in the garden. It can be used to cover plants that don't require pollination, such as leafy greens, to protect them from pests. It can also be draped over plants as a floating row cover to protect them from the cold while still allowing water, air, and light to reach them. Additionally, cheesecloth can be used to create plant food from compost by placing compost in a square of cheesecloth and folding it into a tea bag. In terms of outdoor plant pots, cheesecloth can be placed over the drainage holes in pots before planting to prevent soil from escaping. However, one user reported that cheesecloth rotted when they tried to use it in their plant pots. Alternatives to using cheesecloth in plant pots include commercial-grade weed barrier fabric and coffee filters, which are useful for lining the bottom of pots to prevent soil from escaping through the drainage holes.
Using Cheesecloth on Outdoor Plant Pots
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Protection from Elements | Cheesecloth can be draped over outdoor plants to protect them from the cold, heat, and pests. |
| Pest Control | It can be used to keep bugs and pests away from plants that do not need pollination, such as leafy greens, broccoli, and potatoes. |
| Drainage | A square of cheesecloth can be placed over the drainage holes in pots to prevent soil from escaping. |
| Mulching | Cheesecloth can be used as a quick and easy mulching hack to protect seedlings. |
| Composting | It can be used to create plant food from compost by placing compost in a square of cheesecloth and tying it closed like a teabag. |
| Kokedama | Cheesecloth is an essential material for making Kokedama, a Japanese bonsai planting form. |
| Recyclability | Cheesecloth is a natural material that can be composted after use. |
| Air and Water Permeability | Cheesecloth allows air and water to reach plants while blocking sunlight and weeds. |
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What You'll Learn
Pest control
Cheesecloth is a versatile material with many uses in the garden, particularly for pest control. It can be used to cover plants that don't require pollination, such as leafy greens, broccoli, and potatoes, to keep bug pests at bay. For plants that require pollination, such as squash, melons, and cucumbers, it is important to remove the cheesecloth cover before blooming to allow insects access for pollination.
Cheesecloth can also be used to support and protect growing fruits and melons. It provides a protective barrier while still allowing water, air, and light to reach the plants. This makes it ideal for shading delicate plants from heat and drought. Additionally, cheesecloth can be used to bundle and hang fresh herbs to dry in a cool, dry place.
Another pest control application of cheesecloth is in creating a natural repellent. By soaking cheesecloth in a liquid that repels unwanted animals, such as ammonia, and hanging it around the garden, you can create a natural barrier against squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, and more, without causing harm to your plants.
Cheesecloth can also be used to create plant food from compost. Similar to making a tea bag, you can place a scoop of compost in a square of cheesecloth, fold up the corners, and tie them closed with string. This allows the compost to steep in water, creating a nutrient-rich plant food.
Additionally, cheesecloth can be placed over the drainage holes in pots before planting to prevent soil from escaping while still allowing water to drain. However, it is important to note that cheesecloth may not be suitable for long-term use in this application as it can rot over time.
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Drainage
Cheesecloth is a natural material that can be composted and has many uses in the garden. It can be used to cover plants to protect them from pests, heat, and cold. It can also be used to create plant food from compost by placing compost in a square of cheesecloth, folding up the corners, and tying them closed with string to create a "tea bag".
Cheesecloth can also be used for drainage in outdoor plant pots. To do this, place a square of cheesecloth over the drainage holes in the pot before planting. This will prevent soil from coming through the drainage holes while still allowing water and air to reach the plants. However, note that cheesecloth may rot over time. Coffee filters are another option for lining the bottoms of pots, though they may be too small for some pots.
Cheesecloth can also be used as a floating row cover for plants, allowing water, air, and light to reach the plants while protecting them from the cold. It can also be draped directly over plants that do not need pollination, such as leafy greens, broccoli, and potatoes, to keep bug pests away. For plants that do need pollination, such as squash, melons, and cucumbers, the cheesecloth should be removed before the plants bloom to allow insects access for pollination.
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Row cover
Using cheesecloth as a row cover is a great way to protect your plants from pests and harsh weather conditions while still allowing water, air, and light to reach them. Here are some tips and instructions for using cheesecloth as a row cover:
Getting Started
Before using cheesecloth as a row cover, cut it to the appropriate size, ensuring it covers the entire plant row with some extra fabric to secure it in place. Drape the cheesecloth loosely over the plants, leaving some slack to allow for plant growth. Then, secure the edges with anchoring pins, rocks, or soil.
Pest Control
Cheesecloth can help keep pests out of your garden. To enhance its pest-repelling properties, treat the cheesecloth with a liquid that will deter squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, and other unwanted visitors. Choose a natural liquid repellent that won't harm your plants, such as ammonia.
Temperature Regulation
Cheesecloth is an excellent material for regulating temperature around your plants. In cold weather, it provides a protective layer that shields plants from frost and cold snaps. In warmer months, cheesecloth can be used to shade delicate plants from excessive heat and drought conditions. Just remember to remove the cheesecloth before temperatures rise too high to prevent overheating.
Pollination
If you're using cheesecloth to protect plants that require pollination, like squash, melons, or cucumbers, be sure to remove the cover before the plants bloom. This will allow insects to access the plants for pollination. For plants that don't require pollination, such as leafy greens, broccoli, and potatoes, you can leave the cheesecloth in place to deter pests.
Composting
Cheesecloth can also be used in composting to create plant food. Place a scoop of compost in the centre of a square of cheesecloth, gather the corners, and secure them with a piece of string, forming a "tea bag." This bundle can then be placed in water to create a nutrient-rich liquid fertiliser for your plants.
Cheesecloth is a versatile and affordable tool for gardeners, offering protection, pest control, and temperature regulation for your outdoor plants. Its lightweight and breathable nature makes it ideal for use as a row cover, providing a nurturing environment for your plants to thrive.
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Sun protection
Cheesecloth is a versatile material with many uses in the garden. It can be used as a protective barrier for plants, particularly young plants that are vulnerable to the elements.
Cheesecloth can be draped loosely over plants to act as a sunscreen or row cover, protecting them from excessive heat and drought. This method allows water, air, and some light to reach the plants. It is important to note that cheesecloth should be removed before temperatures get too hot and before plants that require pollination, such as squash, melons, and cucumbers, begin to bloom.
Additionally, cheesecloth can be used to create a physical barrier against pests. It can be draped or wrapped around plants that do not require pollination, such as leafy greens, broccoli, and potatoes, to keep bugs and other pests at bay.
Cheesecloth can also be used in conjunction with other liquids, such as ammonia, to create a barrier that repels squirrels, rabbits, and raccoons without harming the plants.
For outdoor plant pots specifically, cheesecloth can be placed over the drainage holes before planting to prevent soil from escaping while still allowing for water drainage.
It is important to note that cheesecloth may not be suitable for long-term outdoor use as it can rot over time. However, it is a natural material that can be composted, making it an environmentally friendly option for gardeners.
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Creating plant food
Creating your own plant food is an easy and inexpensive way to feed your plants without using chemicals found in store-bought plant food. It is important to understand what your plant needs to survive and thrive. The three main nutrients plants need are nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, often referred to as N-P-K.
One way to create plant food is to use food scraps. Bokashi compost, for example, is made by tossing food scraps into a bucket with a lid. Each time you add fresh scraps, sprinkle a Bokashi dry mix on top. After three to four weeks, bury the compost where needed in your garden. This compost is loaded with microorganisms and nutrients.
Another method is to use household items such as coffee grounds, eggshells, and banana peels. These items can be dried and ground into a powder, then mixed in equal parts and sprinkled on top of the soil. This mixture will slowly release nutrients into the soil. However, it is important to note that over-fertilization can be harmful to plants, so it is recommended to start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
Additionally, you can create a liquid fertilizer by mixing four to six tablespoons of coffee grounds with one teaspoon of cinnamon and one cup of club soda. This mixture can be used every two weeks to provide a slow release of nutrients without significantly increasing soil acidity.
If you are unsure about your soil's nutritional profile, you can contact a local laboratory to request a soil test. This will help you understand your plant's specific needs and create the perfect balance of nutrients.
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Frequently asked questions
Cheesecloth can be used to cover drainage holes in pots, allowing water to pass through while keeping the soil in the pot. It can also be used to create a small covered "house" for plants, protecting them from frost, heat, and pests. Additionally, cheesecloth can be used to create compost tea, which can be used as an all-natural fertilizer for plants.
Cheesecloth is a natural fibre that will break down over time, so it may not be as durable as synthetic alternatives like felt or landscape fabric. It is also important to remove the cheesecloth before pollination and the arrival of hot weather, as it can block up to 85% of direct sunlight.
To use cheesecloth on outdoor plant pots, cut it to size and place it over the drainage holes. To create a covered "house" for plants, place stakes in the four corners of the planter and drape the cheesecloth over it. To make compost tea, place a scoop of compost in a square of cheesecloth, tie it closed, and steep it in water before pouring it onto your plants.
