If you have any old phones or tablet devices, it's time to dig them out of the junk drawer and see if recycling can turn them into cold hard cash. There are plenty of electronics recyclers out there, but one stands out for making it quick and easy. With over 4,000 locations, EcoATM automatically examines, tests and pays cash on the spot for your electronic devices. All you do is plug your phone in at one of their recycling stations and it does the rest. These stations are in shopping malls and grocery stores, or you can locate the one closest to you at ecoatm.com.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Do you have clear plastic storage bins stashed away in the attic or basement, going unused? These are actually fantastic mini-greenhouses that can be used to either grow (and protect) seedlings or help protect plants when the weather turns cold. You can fill the inside with small seedling cups, growing medium and plant seeds; after misting them well, cover with the lid to help create a greenhouse effect. Or, if the weather calls for a potential chill, just place potted plants inside and close to help insulate and protect them, too.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

When it's time to replace an old kitchen sponge, don't toss it away. An old sponge is the perfect growing medium to use as a seed starter for flowers and vegetables. It's easy: Just place seeds inside the nooks and natural holes of the sponge (or make small slices with the tip of a knife) and mist the sponge well with water. Place it in a dish with a little more water and be sure to keep it moist. In days, you'll see the seeds sprout. When the seedlings are strong enough, you can transplant them into growing medium or just trim the sponge and plant the seedling with the remaining sponge material still attached.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION