As springtime approaches, flowering plants, herbs, succulents and more will be lining store shelves. If you plan to get your hands dirty to showcase nature’s beauty this spring, why not repurpose and reuse a few items as planters? With so many options to house various types of greenery, the sky’s the limit.
Before picking out your favorite plants at a local provider, gather a variety of containers to use as planters. Plan a color scheme or different sizes to fit the space. When preparing for a planting session, purchase soil that drains well but retains moisture and nutrients. Grab a spade, some gardening gloves and a watering can. If you plan to kneel to plant, get a towel and fold it several times to provide a comfier spot to rest on the ground.
Basins or Bowls
Gardeners can find basins and bowls made from a variety of materials including ceramic, metal or plastic that can be repurposed into indoor or outdoor planters. You might check local thrift stores or garage sales to find a few planters. This type of container is the perfect space for smaller plants, such as succulents or spider plants. Another option is herbs including lemon balm, spearmint or basil. If you plant edible vegetation, make sure the containers have holes for proper drainage to prevent root rot. You can use a drill to create holes in metal containers or a screwdriver to poke several holes in the bottom of plastic vessels.
Once you have planted your selections, you can set the basins or bowls on old metal chairs out by the pool, or display them on refurbished shelving on the porch. Remember to add a saucer or drainage tray under plants on outdoor shelves or under others that you bring indoors. Whatever you decide, the repurposed containers are sure to brighten any space.
Rubber Boots and Shoes
Rubber boots or shoes can add color to your outdoor garden. First, create drainage holes. Then, fill the containers with soil and flowering plants or other vegetation that will flourish outdoors. You could choose smaller plants to fit the tight spaces.
Coffee Mugs and Tea Pots
Old coffee mugs filled with succulents or herbs are a fun addition to a windowsill in the kitchen. You could use a collection of mugs from family vacations, or you might discover colorful tea pots at a thrift store, perfect for smaller plants. Aloe is a great choice for a mug or tea pot. It develops quickly with new growth sprouting every few weeks. Once the aloe gets larger, you can transplant it into a bigger vessel.
Wagons and Wheelbarrows
Using an old wagon or a wheelbarrow as a planter provides a larger space to showcase your selection of vegetation. Make sure the plants and flowers you plan to add require the same amount of sunlight, and that the wagon or wheelbarrow has drainage holes. You will need more potting soil to fill the larger space. Start by placing a layer of soil on the bottom of the wagon or wheelbarrow. The soil should be at a level that leaves space for you to add more soil once your plants are added to the container.
Organize your potted plants on top of the layer of soil. Add more soil around the pots, pressing the soil down to compact it around potted plants. Once enough soil is added, remove the pots and take out the plants. Add the plants back to the holes left behind in the soil. Continue until all of the new plants have been added to the wagon or wheelbarrow. Add more soil, if necessary, and don’t forget to water!
For any plant’s care needs, read the instructions for how much and what type of sunlight is required daily, as well as watering instructions. These vary for each plant. A good rule of thumb is if the soil is dry to the touch, the plant needs to be watered. Added nutrients such as plant fertilizer, plant food or compost can help with growth.
To keep your plants thriving, make sure they have sufficient light, water and nutrients. You can refer back to the instructions included with your plant purchase or Google tips to keep your plants happy and healthy.
Editor’s Note: Don’t forget to tag us when you share your photos on Facebook!
Written by Amber D. Browne
You must be logged in to post a comment.