10 Innovative DIY Garden Container Ideas Using Everyday Items
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Tired of those overpriced, boring garden pots? Want to grow your plants in something with a little more character (and a lot less money)? Well, grab a cup of coffee and your old junk because today we’re turning everyday household items into fabulous DIY garden containers.
1. Colanders – Drainage Perfection
Ever noticed how colanders already have drainage holes? That’s half the battle won! These kitchen staples make perfect planters for herbs and small flowers. Just pop in some soil, plant your basil, and enjoy the rustic charm.
🛠️ DIY Tip: Line the inside with coconut coir or landscaping fabric to keep soil from escaping.
🌱 Best for: Basil, parsley, succulents.
2. Old Boots – Walk Your Plants to Style

Those worn-out rain boots taking up space in your closet? Give them new life as quirky garden planters. Their deep shape makes them great for flowers with longer roots.
👢 DIY Tip: Drill a few extra drainage holes in the soles to prevent waterlogging.
🌸 Best for: Marigolds, petunias, or small vegetables like radishes.
3. Tin Cans – The Budget Gardener’s Dream
Tin cans are free, sturdy, and easy to repurpose. They work well for small plants, plus they give a farmhouse-style charm to any space.
🛠️ DIY Tip: Paint them with weatherproof spray paint or wrap them in burlap for a rustic look.
🌱 Best for: Lettuce, mint, or chives.
4. Laundry Baskets – Instant Raised Beds
Did you know that plastic laundry baskets make excellent mini raised beds? Their perforations help with drainage, and their size is perfect for larger plants.
🛠️ DIY Tip: Line with burlap or landscape fabric before adding soil.
🥕 Best for: Carrots, lettuce, or strawberries.
5. Broken Wheelbarrow – The Ultimate Upcycle
A wheelbarrow with a busted wheel may not haul dirt anymore, but it can still hold plants beautifully. Perfect for a rustic, cottage-style garden.
🌿 Best for: A mix of flowers or a cascading herb garden.
6. Hanging Shoe Organizers – The Vertical Garden Hack

Hang a fabric shoe organizer on a fence, and boom—instant vertical garden! Each pocket becomes a tiny home for herbs or flowers.
🛠️ DIY Tip: Use a waterproof liner inside each pocket before adding soil.
🌱 Best for: Strawberries, spinach, or oregano.
7. Plastic Storage Bins – Deep and Spacious
Got an old storage bin with a cracked lid? Use it as a large planter! These bins are fantastic for deep-rooted veggies.
🥕 Best for: Potatoes, carrots, or tomatoes.
8. Teapots and Coffee Mugs – Mini Charmers
Chipped teapots and old coffee mugs make adorable indoor or patio planters.
☕ DIY Tip: If there’s no drainage hole, add a layer of gravel at the bottom.
🌿 Best for: Small succulents or kitchen herbs.
9. Kiddie Pools – A Suburban Garden Hack

Turn an old kiddie pool into an instant raised garden bed. They’re spacious, cheap, and easy to move around.
🛠️ DIY Tip: Drill holes in the bottom and fill with a mix of soil and compost.
🥬 Best for: Leafy greens, beans, or a mix of herbs.
10. Dresser Drawers – Vintage Gardening
Old dresser drawers can be stacked and arranged creatively to create a tiered planter display.
🛠️ DIY Tip: Drill holes for drainage and line with landscape fabric.
🌷 Best for: Flowers like pansies, daisies, or lavender.
Final Thoughts: Get Creative!
There you have it—10 fun, innovative ways to grow plants using everyday items! You don’t need fancy pots or expensive planters when creativity is on your side.
Happy gardening, and may your plants grow as wildly as your creativity!