Slip a plastic pot inside found containers if you wish to preserve the container.
One of the benefits of container gardening is that you aren't locked into a specific location and are free to experiment with the placement of your planters and the choice of containers. Although there are many commercial planters and pots available, using found items for planters allows you to create a whimsical garden that appeals to the senses. Nearly any item that provides adequate room for soil and provides drainage can be used as a planter. Fill old shoes and boots with flowing flowers and place them on the front steps. Old pots, cast iron kettles, discarded boxes, old bins, washtubs, bread boxes and discarded mailboxes also make good planters. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Drill drainage holes in the bottom of the planter. The size and number of holes depends on the size of the planter. Four to six 1/4- to 1/2-inch holes typically provides adequate drainage.
2. Line the inside of the container with a plastic pot and plastic liner, if you wish to preserve the container. Old wooden boxes make convenient planters, but over time the damp soil will deteriorate the wood. Slipping a small plant pot--with a saucer to catch drainage--inside an old boot prevents damage to the boot.
3. Fill the cavity of the planter with a mixture of equal parts potting soil, peat moss and perlite. This creates a lightweight soil mix that's suitable for container growing.
4. Purchase plant seedlings that enhance the overall shape and size of the planter. Large planters, such as old washtubs or dryer drums, can support large plants. Choose sunflowers, dahlias, and other tall plants for the center to add height. Add smaller mounding plants around your central plants and finish off with trailing flowers, such as alyssum or lobelia, around the edge.
5. Showcase smaller planters, such as old boots or shoes, by tucking one or two medium to small plants inside. Consider brightly colored flowers, such a nasturtiums, dwarf cosmos or daisies to create a country feel.
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