10 Easy Container Gardening Ideas Using Repurposed Items

Looking to add a touch of green to your outdoor space? Why not explore the world of container gardening using repurposed items?

With a bit of creativity and a few simple materials, you can transform everyday objects into unique planters that will not only enhance your garden, but also reduce waste.

From old buckets and mason jars to wine bottles and wooden crates, the possibilities are endless.

So, why not take a moment to discover these 10 easy container gardening ideas and see how you can give a new life to items that might've otherwise ended up in the trash?

Key Takeaways

Repurposed containers such as old buckets, mason jars, wine bottles, wooden crates, tires, tea tins, shoe organizers, pallets, and tin cans can be used for creative and sustainable container gardening.
These repurposed containers can be transformed into decorative planters that add charm and visual interest to any space.
Different repurposed items offer various options for container gardening, such as hanging containers, vertical gardens, stackable containers, and unique displays like tire planters or pallet gardens.
By repurposing these items, you can reduce waste and create a personalized and eco-friendly container garden.

Old Buckets

If you have old buckets lying around, you can easily repurpose them for container gardening in a variety of practical and creative ways. Instead of throwing them away, why not give them a new lease on life by turning them into unique planters?

One option is to drill holes in the bottom of the bucket for drainage and fill it with soil to create a small vegetable garden. This is a great way to grow your own fresh produce, even if you have limited space.

Another idea is to paint the buckets in bright colors and use them as decorative planters for flowers or herbs. You can hang them from a fence or balcony railing to add a pop of color to your outdoor space.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can even stack buckets of different sizes to create a vertical garden. This not only maximizes your gardening space, but it also adds an interesting visual element to your patio or backyard.

Mason Jars

One versatile and popular item for container gardening is the mason jar. These glass jars aren't only affordable and easily accessible but also provide a charming and rustic aesthetic to your garden. Mason jars are perfect for growing small herbs, flowers, and even vegetables.

To start, fill the bottom of the mason jar with a layer of rocks or pebbles for drainage. Next, add potting soil, leaving enough room for your plant's roots. Gently place your chosen plant into the jar, ensuring it's secure and upright. Water the plant thoroughly but be careful not to overwater, as mason jars don't have drainage holes. Place the jar in a sunny spot, and remember to rotate it occasionally to ensure even growth.

Mason jars can also be used as a unique and creative way to propagate plants. Simply cut a stem or leaf from the parent plant and place it in water inside the jar. After a few weeks, you should start to see roots forming. Once the roots are well established, transfer the plant to soil for continued growth.

With their versatility and charm, mason jars make an excellent choice for container gardening. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned gardener, these repurposed items will add a touch of beauty to any space. So, why not give it a try and start your own mason jar garden today?

Wine Bottles

Looking to add a touch of elegance to your container garden? Wine bottles can be repurposed into unique and stylish planters.

Simply cut off the bottom of the bottle, add some soil, and plant your favorite herbs or flowers.

You can also create a wine bottle herb garden by attaching multiple bottles together, creating a vertical growing space that saves room and looks stunning.

Wine Bottle Planters

To create unique and eco-friendly container gardens, repurposing wine bottles as planters offers a stylish and sustainable solution. Wine bottle planters not only add a touch of elegance to your garden but also help reduce waste by giving new life to old bottles. They are easy to make and can be customized to fit any style or space.

To create your wine bottle planter, start by cleaning the bottle thoroughly and removing any labels. Then, carefully cut off the bottom of the bottle using a glass cutter or a tile saw. This will create a hole for the plant to grow through. Next, fill the bottle with potting soil and add your desired plants or herbs.

Here is a simple step-by-step guide to help you create your own wine bottle planter:

Step	Instructions
1	Clean the bottle and remove labels
2	Cut off the bottom of the bottle
3	Fill with potting soil
4	Add plants or herbs

Once your wine bottle planter is complete, you can hang it from a tree branch, place it on a windowsill, or even create a vertical garden by attaching multiple bottles to a wall. Get creative and experiment with different bottle colors and plant combinations to create a stunning and sustainable container garden.

Wine Bottle Herb Garden

To expand on the concept of repurposing wine bottles as planters, let's now explore how you can create a charming and functional wine bottle herb garden.

First, gather a collection of empty wine bottles and remove the labels.

Next, wash the bottles thoroughly to ensure they're clean and free of any residue.

Now, it's time to prepare the bottles for planting. Fill each bottle with a layer of small rocks or pebbles for drainage, followed by a layer of potting soil.

Choose your favorite herbs, such as basil, rosemary, or thyme, and carefully plant them in the bottles.

Place your wine bottle herb garden in a sunny spot and water regularly.

With minimal effort, you can enjoy fresh herbs right at your fingertips.

Wooden Crates

Consider using wooden crates as versatile and eco-friendly containers for your container gardening endeavors. Wooden crates are not only affordable, but they also add a rustic charm to your garden space. These crates can be found at flea markets, yard sales, or even repurposed from old shipping crates. They are perfect for growing a variety of plants, from herbs and vegetables to flowers and succulents.

To help you get started with your wooden crate container garden, here are three ideas to inspire you:

Idea	Materials Needed	Plants to Grow
1. Vertical Garden	– Wooden crate <br> – Lattice or chicken wire <br> – Potting soil <br> – Plants with trailing or vining growth habit (e.g. strawberries, tomatoes, trailing petunias)	– Strawberries <br> – Tomatoes <br> – Trailing petunias
2. Herb Garden	– Wooden crate <br> – Plastic liner or landscape fabric <br> – Potting soil <br> – Variety of herb plants (e.g. basil, mint, rosemary)	– Basil <br> – Mint <br> – Rosemary
3. Flower Garden	– Wooden crate <br> – Potting soil <br> – Assorted flowering plants (e.g. marigolds, pansies, petunias)	– Marigolds <br> – Pansies <br> – Petunias

With these ideas, you can transform wooden crates into beautiful and functional containers for your container garden. Remember to drill drainage holes in the bottom of the crates to ensure proper water drainage. Additionally, consider adding a layer of gravel or broken pottery at the bottom of the crate to improve drainage further. Happy gardening!

Tires

Looking for unique and creative ways to repurpose tires in your container garden?

Consider using them as tire planters, where you can fill them with soil and plant your favorite flowers or herbs.

Another option is to stack tires on top of each other, creating a tire stack garden that adds height and visual interest to your space.

Lastly, you can repurpose tires to create a tire flower bed by laying them flat and filling them with soil, allowing you to plant a variety of flowers in a compact and organized way.

Tire Planters

One creative and practical way to repurpose old tires is by transforming them into unique and functional tire planters. Not only does this help reduce waste, but it also adds a quirky touch to your garden. Here are three ideas for repurposing tires into planters:

Stacked Tire Planter: Start by cleaning the tires thoroughly and painting them with weather-resistant paint. Then, stack them on top of each other, securing them with adhesive or bolts. Fill each tire with soil and plant your favorite flowers or herbs in each tier.
Hanging Tire Planter: Cut a tire in half and hang it using strong chains or ropes. Line the bottom with a piece of burlap or landscape fabric to prevent soil from falling out. Fill the tire with potting soil and add your chosen plants. Hang it from a sturdy structure like a tree branch or pergola.
Tire Planter Tower: Paint several tires in different colors and sizes. Stack them vertically, using a metal rod or pipe as a central support. Fill each tire with soil and plant flowers, succulents, or even small vegetables. This tower of tires will create a visually appealing focal point in your garden.

Repurposing old tires into planters not only adds character to your garden but also helps reduce waste. Get creative and turn those old tires into unique and functional planters!

Tire Stack Garden

To continue repurposing old tires in your container garden, let's explore the creative and practical idea of creating a tire stack garden. This method allows you to maximize space while adding an eye-catching element to your garden.

To start, gather three or four old tires of the same size. Clean them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Then, position the first tire on the ground as the base. Fill it with soil, leaving about an inch of space at the top.

Place the second tire on top, making sure it aligns with the first one. Repeat this process with the remaining tires, stacking them securely. Finally, fill each tire with soil and add your desired plants.

The stack garden not only adds height to your garden but also creates a unique focal point.

Tire Flower Bed

Transform your old tires into a vibrant and eco-friendly Tire Flower Bed. With a little creativity and some simple materials, you can turn your tires into a beautiful addition to your garden. Here are three easy steps to get you started:

Choose your tires: Select tires that are in good condition and free of any toxic substances. Avoid using tires that have been sitting in direct sunlight for prolonged periods, as they may release harmful chemicals into the soil.
Prepare the tires: Clean the tires thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Use a brush and mild detergent to scrub the surface. Rinse well and let them dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Plant your flowers: Fill the tires with a good quality potting mix, leaving enough space for your plants to grow. Choose a variety of colorful flowers to create an eye-catching display. Make sure to water your flowers regularly and provide them with the necessary sunlight and nutrients.

Tea Tins

When repurposing tea tins for container gardening, you can create unique and charming planters that add a touch of vintage elegance to your outdoor space. Tea tins are the perfect size for small plants like herbs, succulents, or flowers, and their compact shape makes them easy to place on windowsills, balconies, or even hang from hooks.

To start, make sure to clean the tea tin thoroughly, removing any residue or labels. Next, punch a few drainage holes in the bottom of the tin to prevent water from pooling and causing root rot. Fill the tin with a high-quality potting mix, leaving enough space for the plant's roots. Gently place your chosen plant into the tin, ensuring it's centered and secure.

Tea tins come in various designs and colors, so choose one that complements your outdoor aesthetic. You can also get creative by painting or adding decorative elements to the tin to make it even more visually appealing.

Remember to water your plants regularly and provide adequate sunlight for their growth. Tea tins are excellent options for small space gardening or for adding a touch of charm to any garden.

Shoe Organizers

Now let's explore the next creative idea for container gardening using repurposed items: shoe organizers. Shoe organizers aren't just for keeping your footwear in order; they can also be used to create a beautiful and functional garden space.

Here are three ways you can repurpose shoe organizers for your container gardening needs:

Vertical herb garden: Hang a shoe organizer on a wall or fence and fill each pocket with soil and your favorite herbs. This allows you to have a variety of herbs in a small space, and it also makes them easily accessible for cooking or garnishing drinks.
Flower display: Use a shoe organizer with clear pockets to showcase a variety of colorful flowers. Fill each pocket with soil and plant flowers of different heights and colors. Hang the organizer on a wall or fence, and you'll have a stunning and eye-catching flower display.
Succulent arrangement: If you're a fan of succulents, a shoe organizer can be a great way to display them. Fill each pocket with a mixture of succulent soil and pebbles, then plant a different succulent in each pocket. Hang the organizer in a sunny spot, and you'll have a beautiful and low-maintenance succulent garden.

Shoe organizers provide a convenient and versatile solution for container gardening. So, instead of throwing away your old shoe organizer, give it a new purpose in your garden.

Pallets

Are you looking for creative ways to repurpose pallets for your container gardening? Pallet planters are a great option for adding a rustic touch to your garden while also maximizing your space.

You can easily transform a pallet into a vertical garden by attaching pots or planters to the slats, allowing you to grow a variety of plants in a small area.

Pallet Planters

To create unique and functional container gardens, consider repurposing pallets into versatile pallet planters. Pallet planters are a great way to add greenery to your outdoor space while also minimizing waste.

Here are three easy ways to transform pallets into beautiful planters:

Vertical Pallet Planter: Attach a pallet to a wall or fence and fill each opening with soil and plants. This vertical planter is perfect for small spaces and adds a touch of greenery to any area.
Raised Bed Pallet Planter: Remove a few boards from the pallet and stack it on top of another pallet to create a raised bed planter. This is ideal for growing vegetables or herbs and allows for better drainage.
Hanging Pallet Planter: Hang a pallet horizontally from hooks or chains and fill it with small potted plants. This hanging planter adds visual interest to your outdoor space and is a great way to showcase your favorite plants.

Repurposing pallets into planters not only adds a unique touch to your garden but also helps reduce waste and gives new life to old materials. Get creative and enjoy the beauty of your repurposed pallet planters!

Vertical Pallet Gardens

Transforming pallets into vertical pallet gardens is a creative and practical way to maximize your garden space and add a stunning vertical display of plants. Vertical gardening is ideal for small spaces or for those who want to make the most of their available area. By repurposing pallets, you can create an innovative and cost-effective solution for growing plants vertically.

Here is an example of a simple yet effective vertical pallet garden design:

Row 1	Row 2	Row 3
Herbs	Flowers	Succulents
Lettuce	Strawberries	Tomatoes

To create your vertical pallet garden, start by securing the pallet upright against a wall or fence. Fill each row with soil and plant your desired plants in each section. Remember to choose plants with similar watering and sunlight needs. Water your vertical garden regularly and monitor the soil moisture levels to ensure your plants thrive. Vertical pallet gardens not only save space but also create a visually appealing and unique garden display.

Tin Cans

You can easily repurpose tin cans into creative and functional containers for your container garden. Tin cans are a versatile option that can be used in various ways to add a touch of charm to your gardening space. Here are three ideas on how to repurpose tin cans for your container garden:

Herb planters: Clean out the tin cans and make sure there are no sharp edges. Fill them with potting soil and plant your favorite herbs, such as basil, thyme, or mint. Place the cans on a sunny windowsill or hang them on a wall using wire or twine. Not only will they add a pop of green to your kitchen, but they'll also provide you with fresh herbs for cooking.
Flower pots: Tin cans can be transformed into lovely flower pots. Paint them in vibrant colors or wrap them with decorative paper or fabric to match your garden's theme. Fill them with soil and plant your favorite flowers, such as pansies, petunias, or marigolds. Place them on your patio or hang them from a fence to create a beautiful display of blooms.
Vertical garden: Attach tin cans to a wooden pallet or a wall using screws or hooks. Fill the cans with soil and plant trailing plants like ivy or ferns. This vertical garden won't only save space but also add a unique and eye-catching element to your outdoor area.

With a little creativity, tin cans can be repurposed into functional and stylish containers for your container garden. Give these ideas a try and enjoy the beauty and convenience of your repurposed tin can containers.

Hanging Baskets

If you're looking to add a new dimension to your container garden, consider incorporating hanging baskets into your gardening space. Hanging baskets are a great way to utilize vertical space and create a stunning display of cascading flowers or foliage. They can be easily hung from hooks, trellises, or even tree branches, allowing you to maximize your gardening area.

Here are some ideas for repurposed items you can use as hanging baskets:

Repurposed Item	How to Use	Plants to Consider
Old watering cans	Drill holes in the bottom for drainage and hang with sturdy wire or chain	Petunias, lobelia, trailing geraniums
Wire baskets	Line with sphagnum moss or coconut coir and fill with potting soil	Boston ferns, trailing ivy, fuchsia
Mason jars	Attach wire or twine around the jar neck and hang from a hook	Herbs like basil or mint, small succulents

When choosing plants for your hanging baskets, consider their light requirements and growth habits. Opt for trailing or vining plants to create a lush and abundant look. Remember to water your hanging baskets regularly, as they can dry out quickly. Also, keep in mind that hanging baskets may require more frequent fertilizing due to their limited soil volume. With a little creativity and some repurposed items, you can easily elevate your container garden with beautiful hanging baskets.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Prepare Old Buckets for Use as Containers in Container Gardening?

To prepare old buckets for container gardening, start by cleaning them thoroughly with soap and water. Then, drill drainage holes in the bottom for proper water flow. Finally, add a layer of gravel or rocks to promote drainage and prevent waterlogged soil.

Are There Any Specific Types of Plants That Thrive in Mason Jars?

There are specific types of plants that thrive in mason jars. Succulents, herbs, and small flowering plants like violets are great choices. Make sure to provide proper drainage and sunlight for their growth.

What Is the Best Way to Clean and Sanitize Wine Bottles Before Using Them as Planters?

To clean and sanitize wine bottles before using them as planters, start by rinsing them with warm water to remove any residue. Then, mix a solution of equal parts water and vinegar and soak the bottles for 15-20 minutes. Finally, rinse thoroughly and let them air dry.

Can Wooden Crates Be Used for Large Plants or Are They Better Suited for Smaller Herbs and Flowers?

Wooden crates can be used for both large plants and smaller herbs and flowers. They provide a rustic and charming look to your garden. Just make sure to line the bottom with a plastic sheet to prevent water damage.

Is It Necessary to Remove the Rubber From Tires Before Using Them as Planters?

No, it's not necessary to remove the rubber from tires before using them as planters. The rubber can actually help retain moisture and provide insulation for the plants. Just make sure to clean the tires thoroughly before planting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, container gardening can be a fun and creative way to utilize repurposed items in your garden.