There’s something magical about stepping into a garden filled with unique, handmade planters. It’s a feeling I experienced firsthand when I turned an old teapot into a charming succulent holder, and the joy of seeing it thrive on my windowsill was unmatched.
Creating your own outdoor planters is a fantastic way to add a touch of personality to your garden without breaking the bank. With warmer weather upon us, now is the perfect time to get creative and make some beautiful, budget-friendly planters. Here are some unique DIY planter ideas that use everyday household items and thrift store finds to create stunning container gardens.
These ideas are not only affordable but also a great way to recycle and upcycle items, giving them new life as charming planters for your green spaces. Dive into these projects and discover how a little creativity can transform ordinary items into extraordinary garden decor.
1. Colorful Boot Pot
Don’t toss out those old rain boots just yet! Transform them into quirky and colorful planters with a bit of creativity. Choose boots with fun patterns or bright colors, make sure they have drainage holes at the bottom, and fill them with potting mix. Tall plants like sunflowers or cascading herbs look fantastic in boot planters, adding a playful touch to your garden or balcony.
Tip on Proper Drainage: Before filling your colorful boot pot with soil, make sure to create drainage holes at the bottom. You can use a drill or a hammer and nail to carefully puncture a few holes, allowing excess water to escape and preventing root rot. For added protection, place small stones or gravel at the bottom of the boot before adding soil to help improve drainage further.
2. Upcycled Tin Can
Tin cans are versatile and inexpensive materials for DIY planters. Clean and remove any labels, and poke holes in the bottom for drainage. Add personality by painting the can in a fun color or decorating it with washi tape. Fill it with a potting mix and plant your favorite herbs or small flowers. Upcycled tin can planters are perfect for windowsills, kitchen counters, or creating a vertical herb garden with hooks.
3. Paint Bucket Planter
Leftover paint buckets can be turned into sturdy and colorful planters with a little creativity. Choose a plastic bucket and customize it with a fresh coat of paint or decoupage. Add drainage holes and fill it with a potting mix for your favorite plants. Paint bucket planters are perfect for a rustic garden theme or for creating a uniform look on your patio.
4. Wooden Crates
Wooden crates can be transformed into charming planters, ideal for larger plants or even small vegetable gardens. They can be painted or stained to match your outdoor decor, providing a cohesive look to your garden. For a rustic charm, try using chalk paint, which gives a lovely matte finish. Ensure you drill drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging, which can harm your plants. Wooden crates offer a rustic, farmhouse aesthetic that blends well with any garden style.
5. Teacup Flower Pot
Bring a touch of elegance to your decor with a teacup planter. Choose a charming teacup trio from a thrift store and drill a drainage hole in the saucer. Line the teacup with plastic or moss to create a moisture barrier, then fill it with a potting mix. A small flowering plant or a cluster of violets would look perfect peeking out of your unique teacup planter. Display it on a windowsill or use a small plate stand to create a beautiful centerpiece for a tea party.
6. Old Coffee Mugs
Repurposing old coffee mugs into small planters is a fantastic way to recycle while adding a quirky touch to your garden. These mugs are perfect for growing succulents, which require minimal water and care. Simply drill a small hole at the bottom of each mug for drainage, and you’re set. Display them on windowsills, shelves, or garden tables for a whimsical and personalized garden feature.
7. Mason Jars
Mason jars are versatile and stylish options for creating beautiful flower pots. They can be used both indoors and outdoors, offering a rustic, homely feel. Mason jars are the perfect size for small plants and can be used as candle holders or hung as part of a unique display. For added charm, tie some twine around the necks of the jars or paint them in pastel colors. They make great centerpieces for dining tables or hanging planters for your porch.
8. Concrete Planters
For a sleek, modern look, try making your own concrete planters. This DIY project is simpler than it sounds and requires basic materials like a gallon bucket and concrete mix. Once the concrete sets, you’ll have a sturdy and stylish planter that adds a contemporary edge to your garden. These planters are perfect for succulents and other small plants. You can also experiment with different shapes and sizes by using various molds.
9. Bird Cage Flower Pot
Give an old bird cage a new purpose by turning it into a whimsical flower pot. Imagine cascading vines climbing up the bars or colorful blooms peeking through the open door. A bird cage planter is perfect for hanging on a porch or patio, adding a vintage charm to your outdoor space. Choose a metal cage that resists rust, and line the bottom with plastic or moss before adding soil and your favorite plants.
10. Egg Cartons
Egg cartons are an excellent, eco-friendly option for starting seedlings. They are biodegradable and can be planted directly into the soil once your seedlings are ready. This method reduces waste and makes transplanting easier, as the cartons decompose naturally. Simply fill each section with soil and seeds, and watch your plants grow. This is a great way to recycle household items while giving your garden a sustainable boost.
11. Old Tires
Old tires can be given a new lease on life by transforming them into large, colorful planters. Paint the tires in bright, cheerful colors and stack them to create eye-catching garden features. They are incredibly durable and can hold a significant amount of soil, making them ideal for larger plants or even small shrubs. This creative use of old tires not only adds a unique touch to your garden but also helps in recycling.
12. Glass Jars
Glass jars can be beautifully repurposed into planters for faux plants or small live plants. Decorate them with mod podge and fabric to create a unique, customized look. These jars are perfect for displaying your plant babies on shelves, windowsills, or tables. The transparency of glass jars also allows you to see the roots and soil, adding an interesting visual element to your garden décor.
13. Fence Pickets
Transform old fence pickets into tall, elegant planters that add height and dimension to your garden. Perfect for small spaces, these planters can be painted or stained to match your outdoor decor. This straightforward DIY project requires minimal tools and effort, making it an accessible and rewarding way to upcycle materials.
14. Old Kettle Planter
Repurpose a rusty or vintage kettle into a charming planter. Look for a kettle with an attractive spout or unique design. Ensure proper drainage by creating holes in the bottom and fill it with potting mix. A trailing succulent or small flowering plant would look perfect, peeking out of the spout. Display your kettle planter on a windowsill, or use a small hanging chain to create a unique suspended planter.
15. Old Toy Planter
Give a beloved or outgrown toy a new lease on life by turning it into a whimsical planter. Plastic trucks, dollhouses, or tea sets can be transformed into quirky plant containers. Ensure they have drainage holes, and consider sealing the toy with a waterproof coat if necessary. Small succulents or cacti look perfect in these miniature planters, adding a touch of whimsy to a child’s room or a sunny windowsill.
16. Wheelbarrow Planter
A wheelbarrow planter is versatile and visually striking. Use a brand new wheelbarrow for a polished look or a vintage one for rustic charm. Ensure the wheelbarrow has drainage holes; if not, create them yourself. For better stability, fill the base with pebbles or gravel before adding potting mix. This unique planter is perfect for displaying a mix of colorful flowers and greenery.
17. Reuse Bath Items (Bathtub Planter, Toilet Planter, etc.)
Create a show-stopping planter by repurposing an old bathtub or toilet. This bold project is ideal for a spacious patio or garden. Ensure proper drainage and line the bottom with landscaping fabric before adding potting mix. Fill it with brightly colored flowers or climbing vines for a memorable and conversation-starting garden feature.
18. Kitchen Planters
Think beyond their culinary purpose! Kitchen utensils like spoons, forks, ladles, and frying pans can be transformed into unique mini planters for succulents or small cacti. Choose a utensil with a shallow bowl, drill a hole for drainage, fill it with potting mix, and plant your favorite tiny cactus. Display these mini planters on a windowsill or arrange them on a small tray for a charming and unexpected garden display.
19. Shoe Planters
Give those old, mismatched shoes a new purpose by turning them into quirky planters. Ensure they have drainage holes, fill them with potting mix, and choose small, vibrant plants like succulents or marigolds to bring a playful touch to your garden or balcony.
20. Hollow Logs
Transform hollow logs into rustic planters that blend seamlessly with natural landscapes. Simply clean out the inside, drill drainage holes, and fill with soil before planting wildflowers or native plants, creating an attractive, eco-friendly garden feature.
How to cheaply fill large planter? 5 Smart tips
Filling a large planter can be costly, but there are several budget-friendly methods to do so effectively. Here are some tips:
- Use Lightweight Fillers:
- Empty Plastic Bottles: Fill the bottom of the planter with empty plastic bottles (cut or whole) to reduce the amount of potting soil needed. This also lightens the planter.
- Styrofoam Peanuts or Packing Materials: If you have these materials on hand, they make great fillers and help with drainage.
- Combine Soil with Other Materials:
- Garden Soil and Compost: Mix garden soil with compost to create a nutrient-rich blend without needing to purchase a large quantity of potting soil.
- Mulch or Wood Chips: Use mulch or wood chips as a top layer, which can help retain moisture and reduce soil usage.
- Create Layers:
- Landscape Fabric Layer: Place a layer of landscape fabric at the bottom to keep soil from washing out while allowing drainage. You can then fill the rest with less expensive materials.
- Rock or Gravel Base: Fill the bottom third with small rocks or gravel for drainage, then fill the remaining space with potting soil or a soil mix.
- Repurpose Organic Materials:
- Kitchen Scraps: Use kitchen scraps like coffee grounds, eggshells, and banana peels as organic fillers, enriching the soil as they decompose.
- Yard Waste: If you have yard waste like dried leaves or grass clippings, you can use these to fill in some space in your planter.
- Buy in Bulk:
- If you need potting soil, consider buying in bulk from a local garden center or nursery. This often reduces the cost per cubic foot compared to purchasing bags.
FAQs: DIY Creative and Cheap Planters
What are some creative ideas for making new planters using items I might already have at home?
Creative ideas for making new planters include using items like old paint cans, an old wooden ladder, or even an old tire. These can be transformed into beautiful flower pots with a little creativity and effort.
How can I ensure my DIY planters have proper drainage for excess water?
To ensure proper drainage for excess water, drill pilot holes in the bottom of your planters. This will allow water to escape and prevent root rot, ensuring your plants stay healthy.
What are some simple DIY planter projects for beginners?
Simple DIY planter projects for beginners include using old coffee mugs, clay pots, or even a plastic bag to create small planters. These projects are easy and quick, making them perfect for those new to DIY.
How can I make my own planters for the front porch that look modern and stylish?
To make your own planters for the front porch with a modern look, consider using concrete planters or large planter boxes. You can customize them with different colors and designs to match your porch decor for a sleek and contemporary appearance.
What are some great places to find materials for DIY planters?
Great places to find materials for DIY planters include flea markets, local stores, and even your own home. Look for items like old paint cans, wooden crates, and old tires that can be repurposed into interesting planters.
Conclusion
With a bit of creativity and some everyday household items, you can transform your garden into a vibrant and personalized haven without spending a fortune. From upcycled tin cans and colorful boot pots to elegant teacup planters and rustic wooden crates, these DIY planter ideas offer endless possibilities for adding unique charm to your outdoor space. Not only do these projects help recycle and repurpose old items, but they also provide a fun and rewarding way to express your style. So, gather your materials, roll up your sleeves, and let your green thumb guide you in creating stunning, budget-friendly planters that will make your garden the envy of the neighborhood. Happy planting!
