By Summer Baltzer, planitdiy.com
10 Creative Planter Options: Easy on the Eyes and the Pocketbook
Spring has sprung! Well…for many of us anyway. If you’re not seeing clear signs of spring yet, you will be soon enough and it’s time to get ready!
If our allergies can stand it, this is the time where most of us love to surround ourselves with oceans of color and green from our plants. The problem, though, is that many of us are stuck in a rut when it comes to our planting options. That’s not to say that a traditional planter isn’t beautiful, but there are tons a fun and creative options to personalize your garden, regardless of how much space you have to work with. For those of you who’d like to interject a little more DIY into your gardening this season, here are some fun and creative options that won’t break the bank.
1. Make your plants mobile and create a planter from an old child’s wagon. The natural patina on an old, unused wagon is perfect for any rustic garden. If you’re looking for a brighter color pop, use a brand-new wagon instead. Better yet, choose from dozens of spray paint colors to spice things up! Make sure to add a few holes in the bottom for proper drainage.
2. Wake up your garden with some coffee bag planters. This is a super simple project. You’ll just need some scissors, potting soil, and your plants. Take the empty sack, cut it to the size you’re looking for and fold down the top. Looking for a bag? Many mom and pop coffee houses sell or give these away to customers who ask politely. Quick tip: order some coffee or tea along with your request. For an even more hands-on approach, purchase some burlap or jute from your local fabric store, cut two rectangular pieces the same size, and then sew up three sides leaving one end open for potting. For an even more authentic look, add some black stenciling on the bag to mimic a coffee label.
3. Take your old bike collecting cobwebs in the side yard and plant some flowers it the front basket. It’s a simple way to add more mobility to your garden by giving you the freedom to move your flowers wherever you need more color. If the bike look is not your thing, remove the basket to hang on a fence or wall. It would even look great resting in your flower bed amidst your other creative planters.
4. Reuse old muffin tins or other bakeware for some fun tabletop planters. If you’re not willing to give up on your personal items yet, thrift stores and antique markets are filled with interesting and inexpensive options. Just like the wagon, make sure to drill holes in the bottom of your tins for proper drainage.
5. Recycle your old rain boots! Already made for moisture, these are the perfect, colorful addition to your lush landscape. Mix and match sizes, colors, and patterns for added interest. Hang them on a fence, place a pair outside your back door, or even use them as a cute tabletop accessory. If you don’t have galoshes, any old shoe will do!
Stay tuned for Part 2!