Repurposing Household Items for Small Space Gardening

By
Ashton Marquardt
Updated
A glass bottle used as a watering system for a green plant in a pot, with sunlight creating reflections.

Turn Old Containers into Stylish Planters

One of the easiest ways to start small space gardening is by repurposing old containers. Think about items like tin cans, mason jars, or even old teacups. These can be transformed into unique planters that not only save space but also add character to your garden.

Gardening is a way of showing that you believe in tomorrow.

Audrey Hepburn

To get started, make sure to drill small holes in the bottom for drainage. Then, fill them with potting soil and your choice of herbs or flowers. The best part? You can paint or decorate these containers to match your home’s aesthetic, making gardening a fun craft project.

This approach not only keeps waste out of landfills but also allows you to exercise your creativity. Plus, having plants at home can improve air quality and bring a sense of calm to your space.

Use Wooden Pallets for Vertical Gardens

Wooden pallets are often overlooked, but they can be a fantastic base for vertical gardening. By standing a pallet upright and filling it with soil, you create a vertical garden that takes up minimal ground space. This is perfect for those who want to grow herbs or small vegetables.

A vertical garden created from a painted wooden pallet filled with herbs, bathed in warm sunlight.

To make it even more attractive, you can paint the pallet or line it with fabric before adding soil. Herbs like basil, parsley, and thyme thrive in these environments and are easily accessible for cooking.

Repurpose Containers for Gardening

Old containers like cans and jars can be creatively transformed into stylish planters, enhancing your garden's character while promoting sustainability.

Vertical gardening not only maximizes space but also adds an interesting visual element to your home. It’s a great way to showcase your gardening skills while enjoying fresh produce right at your fingertips.

Repurpose Old Shoe Organizers for Plant Storage

If you have an old shoe organizer lying around, consider transforming it into a vertical garden. By hanging it on a wall or on a door, you can fill each pocket with soil and small plants. This is especially useful for herbs, as they don’t require deep soil and can thrive in compact spaces.

The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago. The second best time is now.

Chinese Proverb

The beauty of using a shoe organizer is that it can be easily moved and adjusted to fit your space. Plus, it’s a fun way to keep your herbs organized and accessible when you need them in the kitchen.

This creative solution not only saves space but also gives your home a quirky flair. Imagine walking into your kitchen and grabbing fresh herbs from a beautifully arranged shoe organizer!

Transform Glass Bottles into Unique Watering Systems

Glass bottles can serve a dual purpose in your garden: they can be used for watering plants while adding an artistic touch. By filling a bottle with water, inverting it, and sticking it into the soil, you create a slow-release watering system. This is especially helpful for plants that thrive on consistent moisture.

This method is particularly effective for small pots where traditional watering can be tricky. The glass bottle can be a conversation starter, showcasing your creativity while providing the necessary hydration for your plants.

Use Vertical Space Wisely

Wooden pallets and shoe organizers can be utilized to create vertical gardens, maximizing limited ground space for growing herbs and small vegetables.

Not only does this idea help in conserving water, but it also turns something ordinary into a functional garden accessory. It’s a simple yet effective way to keep your plants happy and healthy.

Utilize Old Furniture for Container Gardening

Old furniture, like dressers or chairs, can be repurposed into charming container gardens. For instance, you can remove the drawers from a dresser, line them with plastic, and fill them with potting soil. This not only provides ample growing space but also creates a unique garden aesthetic.

Alternatively, you can use an old chair by placing pots on the seat or even hanging them from the back. This adds height to your garden and creates visual interest, making your small space feel more expansive.

Repurposing furniture not only keeps it out of landfills but also allows you to express your personal style. It’s a perfect blend of sustainability and creativity that will leave your guests in awe.

Create Hanging Gardens with Old Buckets

Old metal or plastic buckets can be transformed into hanging gardens that save space and add charm. By drilling holes in the bottom for drainage and hanging them from a sturdy hook, you can create a delightful display of flowers or herbs. This is particularly useful for those with limited ground space.

To make it visually appealing, consider painting the buckets or adding embellishments that reflect your personality. You can hang them at varying heights to create a dynamic look that catches the eye.

Innovative Watering Solutions

Glass bottles can serve as slow-release watering systems, adding an artistic touch to your garden while ensuring plants receive consistent moisture.

This method not only utilizes items you might otherwise discard but also allows you to have a garden that feels alive and vibrant. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to keep plants out of reach of curious pets or children.

Repurpose Egg Cartons for Seed Starting

Egg cartons are often seen as disposable, but they can be a valuable tool for starting seeds. Each compartment can hold a seedling, and once the plants are ready to be transplanted, the entire carton can be placed directly into the soil. This minimizes root disturbance and makes gardening simpler.

Simply fill each compartment with potting mix, plant your seeds, and keep the carton moist until the seedlings sprout. It’s a great way to recycle while nurturing new plants right from the start.

Colorful hanging buckets filled with flowers and herbs, suspended from a wooden beam against a blue sky.

Using egg cartons for seed starting is not only practical but also an excellent way to introduce children to gardening. It’s an engaging activity that teaches responsibility and the joys of watching something grow from a tiny seed.