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Turning Trash into Treasure: Creative Repurposed Planters for Your Garden



clawfoot tub plater of flowers
repurposed clawfoot tub planter

Hello, fellow gardeners and DIY enthusiasts! If you're passionate about gardening and love the satisfaction of giving old items new life, repurposed planters are your perfect project. Transforming discarded items into beautiful garden features not only adds a unique charm to your space but also gives you a sense of accomplishment and supports sustainability by reducing waste. Let's dive into some creative ideas and ways to find these hidden gems for your garden.


The Clawfoot Tub Transformation


Let's start with a personal favorite: the clawfoot tub. Recently, I rescued a 4-foot clawfoot tub destined for the landfill and turned it into a stunning focal point for my front garden. I filled it with a mix of colorful flowers and cascading vines, and the neighbors' response was overwhelmingly positive. However, it's important to note that when repurposing items like tubs, ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized to avoid any health risks. This experience inspired me to explore other creative planter ideas.


Creative Planter Ideas


1.    Vintage Teacups and Teapots

•    Perfect for small succulents or herbs, vintage teacups, and teapots add a whimsical touch to any garden. Place them on a potting bench or hang them from tree branches for a fairy-tale effect.

2.    Old Tires

•    Stack and paint old tires to create colorful, tiered planters. Fill the used tires with soil and plant flowers. This is an terrific to add height and interest to your garden.

3.    Wooden Crates and Pallets

•    Wooden crates can be stacked or hung on walls to create rustic planters. Repurposed wood pallets can be transformed into vertical gardens by attaching small pots or filling the slats with soil and plants.

4.    Wine Barrels

•    Half wine barrels make excellent large planters for shrubs, small trees, or a mix of flowers and herbs. Their sturdy construction and natural look fit seamlessly into any garden style.

5.    Metal Buckets and Tubs

•    Galvanized metal buckets and tubs can be found at flea markets or antique shops. Drill drainage holes in the bottom, fill them with soil and plant various flowers or vegetables for a chic farmhouse look.

6.    Suitcases and Drawers

•    Old suitcases and dresser drawers lined with plastic and filled with soil to create whimsical, vintage planters. They work well for shallow-rooted plants like herbs and succulents.

7.    Bird Cages

•    Repurpose an old bird cage by planting trailing vines and small flowers. Hang it from a tree or place it on a pedestal for a charming garden accent.

8.    Boots and Shoes

•    Fill old boots or shoes with soil and small plants for a playful and unexpected garden element. They're great for adding character to porches or garden paths.


Where to Find Repurposed Planters


Finding items to repurpose into planters is not just a task, it's a joyous treasure hunt. Here are some great places to explore for your next garden project:


1.    Thrift Stores and Flea Markets

•    Thrift stores and flea markets are perfect place to find treasures for unique items. Look for items with interesting shapes and sturdy materials.

2.    Garage Sales and Estate Sales

•    These sales are excellent for finding hidden gems at bargain prices. Don't be afraid to haggle for the best deals.

3.    Online Marketplaces

•    Websites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and Freecycle are perfect for finding free or inexpensive items people want to get rid of.

4.    Curbside Finds

•    Keep an eye out for items left on the curb. One person's trash can truly become your garden treasure.

5.    Recycling Centers

•    Visit local recycling centers or scrap yards where you might find metal, wood, and other materials perfect for creating planters.


Tips for Repurposing Items as Planters


1.    Ensure Proper Drainage

•    Drill holes in the bottom of containers to prevent waterlogging and root rot.

2.    Use Quality Potting Mix

•    Fill your planters with high-quality potting soil to give your plants the best start.

3.    Consider Plant Needs

•    Choose plants that are suitable in size and shape of your repurposed container. For instance, succulents and herbs are perfect for small teacups and teapots, while larger containers like wine barrels can accommodate shrubs and small trees. Ensure they have enough space to grow.

4.    Get Creative with Placement

When it comes to placing your repurposed planters, the sky's the limit. Consider where they will have the most visual impact and don't be afraid to experiment. Group different repurposed planters together for a cohesive look or scatter them around for a whimsical effect. The choice is yours, and that's the beauty of it.

5.    Personalize Your Planters

•    Paint, decorate, or add labels to your planters to match your garden's theme and style.


Turning discarded items into beautiful planters is a rewarding way to enhance your garden's aesthetics while embracing sustainability. However, it's crucial to remember that these repurposed items may require special care. For instance, wooden crates and pallets should be treated with a weather-resistant sealant to prevent rot. So next time you see an old clawfoot tub, a wooden crate, or even an old boot, imagine the possibilities and let your creativity blossom. But also, remember to maintain and care for your repurposed planters to ensure they last.

Happy gardening!

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