15 Repurposed Container Ideas That Will Transform Your Garden

Introduction

Gardening is not just about nurturing plants—it’s about creativity, sustainability, and personal expression. One of the most exciting trends among green thumbs is using repurposed containers as planters. Whether you’re aiming for a rustic garden aesthetic or trying to reduce waste, giving new life to old objects can completely transform your outdoor space..

15 Repurposed Container Ideas That Will Transform Your Garden

1. Old Boots and Shoes

Give worn-out boots and shoes a second chance by turning them into quirky planters. They’re perfect for succulents and small flowering plants.

2. Teapots and Teacups

Vintage teapots and teacups make adorable mini planters. Ideal for herbs and indoor plants, they bring a touch of elegance to any corner.

3. Colanders

Their built-in drainage makes colanders ideal for hanging planters. Spray-paint them for added charm.

4. Wooden Crates

Rustic and spacious, wooden crates work well for herbs, lettuce, and flowers. Line them with landscape fabric before planting.

5. Mason Jars

Perfect for windowsills, mason jars can house herbs or small succulents. Use a pebble layer at the bottom for drainage.

6. Old Drawers

Stack old drawers to create a vertical garden. Paint them for a custom look and use them for flowers or leafy greens.

7. Metal Buckets

Galvanized buckets are durable and add a farmhouse feel to your garden. Drill holes for drainage before planting.

8. Wine Barrels

Half wine barrels can hold a variety of plants and even small trees. They’re great statement pieces for patios.

9. Wicker Baskets

Line them with plastic and poke holes for drainage. Wicker baskets are charming and work well for flowering plants.

10. Toolboxes

Old metal toolboxes make rugged, unique planters. They often have built-in compartments for plant variety.

11. Tires

Paint and stack old tires for a bold, layered garden bed. They’re great for larger spaces and vegetables.

12. Kitchen Pots and Pans

Don’t toss those dented pots—plant in them! Add holes for drainage and watch your garden grow.

13. Birdcages

Turn vintage birdcages into elegant hanging planters. They’re best suited for cascading or climbing plants.

14. Paint Cans

Clean, paint, and reuse old paint cans for modern-looking container gardens. Attach handles for hanging.

15. Suitcases

Line and waterproof an old suitcase, and you’ve got yourself a conversation-starting planter!

1. Choose the Right Container

Look around your home for potential planters like old buckets, teapots, drawers, colanders, or boots.
Avoid containers that held toxic substances (e.g., chemicals or paint) unless they’re safely sealed.

2. Ensure Proper Drainage

Most repurposed containers won’t come with drainage holes—so drill or punch holes in the bottom.
If drilling isn’t possible (e.g., with ceramic or metal), add a layer of gravel or small rocks at the bottom.

3. Use Appropriate Soil

Match the soil to the plant’s needs: succulents need sandy soil, while veggies prefer nutrient-rich mixes.
Don’t reuse old potting soil without refreshing it with compost or fertilizer.

4. Mind the Material

Metal heats up quickly, which can affect root health. Place these in shaded spots.
Wood containers should be treated with non-toxic sealants to extend their life.
Plastic is lightweight and easy to move but may degrade over time in the sun.

5. Get Creative with Design

Paint or decorate containers to add personality and color to your garden.
Group mismatched containers with a common theme—color, plant type, or size—for visual cohesion.

6. Label Your Planters

Especially useful for herbs and veggies. You can paint labels directly on the containers or use stakes.

7. Think Vertical

Use hanging baskets, wall-mounted containers, or stacked crates to save space and add layers to your garden.

8. Repurpose with Purpose

Old rain boots can grow herbs, tea kettles can host succulents, and dresser drawers make excellent tiered planters.

Benefits of Using Repurposed Containers

Reduces waste and encourages sustainability.
Adds charm and uniqueness to your garden.
Saves money on buying new planters.
Great for small-space gardening—perfect for patios or balconies.

🛠️ Quick Suggestions

Use chalkboard paint to label containers for rotating crops.
Repurpose old furniture like desks or bookshelves as plant stands.
For indoor gardening, use mugs, tins, and jars for a cozy aesthetic.

Current Trends in Repurposed Planter Gardening

Sustainability: Eco-conscious gardeners love the zero-waste approach of reusing household items.
Vertical Gardens: Stacking drawers or hanging colanders saves space and adds visual interest.
Rustic and Vintage Decor: Many repurposed containers add a charming, antique touch to garden aesthetics.
DIY Culture: The rise of do-it-yourself content has inspired gardeners to craft custom planters from nearly anything.

Suggestions for Beginners

Start small with items like mugs or jars.
Explore local thrift stores for cheap, unique containers.
Involve kids in the process to encourage creativity and environmental responsibility.
Always clean and disinfect items before using them as planters.

Conclusion

Repurposed containers bring personality, sustainability, and creativity to your garden. Whether you’re using an old colander or a vintage suitcase, these ideas can help you reduce waste and elevate your gardening style. Best of all, they’re often budget-friendly and fun to make.

So next time you think about tossing out an old item—think again. Your next planter might already be in your garage!

References

The Spruce – Creative Container Gardening Ideas
Better Homes & Gardens – DIY Planter Projects
Gardening Know How – Upcycled Garden Ideas

FAQs

Q1: Do repurposed containers need drainage holes?
A: Yes. Most plants need proper drainage to avoid root rot. Add holes or use a gravel base.

Q2: Are all household items safe to use as planters?
A: Avoid items that previously held toxic materials. Clean and sterilize containers before use.

Q3: What are the best plants for small repurposed planters?
A: Herbs, succulents, and small flowering plants like pansies or marigolds are ideal.

Q4: Can I use plastic containers as planters?
A: Yes, just make sure they’re sturdy and have drainage. Paint them for a stylish upgrade.

Q5: How do I weatherproof my repurposed containers?
A: Use waterproof liners, sealants, or protective coatings to extend outdoor durability.