If you are looking for alternatives to planter boxes, there are quite a few options to choose from. Raised beds are one option that are used in many gardens. These beds are typically constructed from treated lumber or sheet metal and sit on legs several inches off the ground.
This allows for maximum drainage and helps prevent the soil from becoming too soggy. With the addition of soil amendments, raised beds are an ideal environment for growing plants.
Another alternative to planter boxes is container gardening. Containers come in all shapes and sizes, and can be filled with soil as needed. Plants can still grow in containers even if they are small and shallow.
Just remember to water regularly and provide adequate drainage.
Hanging baskets can also be an option if you want to grow plants but don’t have enough yard space. Hanging baskets are typically filled with soil and plants are placed inside, then hung on the side of a house, porch or tree.
These baskets don’t require any maintenance except for occasional watering and fertilizing.
For those who prefer a more natural method of gardening, bales of straw or hay can be used as planters. After the bale is set in place and broken apart, the straw can be used to build a planter box. Fill the planter with compost, soil and fertilizer, and it is ready for plants.
No matter what type of planter you choose, the key is to make sure that the soil is well drained so that the plants don’t become waterlogged. With the right materials and the right conditions, any of these options can provide the perfect environment for healthy and happy plants.
How do you make cheap planters?
Making cheap planters is an easy and creative way to spruce up a space without breaking the bank. All you need is a few supplies and some basic DIY skills.
The first step to making a cheap planter is to find a material that you can repurpose into a planter. You can often find materials such as used buckets or plastic containers at thrift stores or online for very little money.
Make sure to choose a material that is durable and won’t easily break down or leak.
Once you’ve chosen your material, you’ll need to make some holes for drainage. If your planter is made of plastic, use a drill to make some small holes in the bottom. If it’s made of metal or wood, you can use a hammer and nail to create the holes.
Next, line the inside of your planter with a layer of stones or gravel. This will help with drainage and make sure that excess water doesn’t stay in the planter and cause the roots to rot.
After that, fill your planter with a good quality potting soil and add I the plants. Depending on the type of plants you’re using, you may also need to add a trellis or stake to the inside of the planter to provide extra support.
Finally, give your new planter a good soaking with a garden hose or watering can and place it in a spot where it can get plenty of sunlight. With a little bit of care and maintenance, you’ll have a beautiful, affordable planter for your home or garden.
How do I build a cheap raised garden bed?
Building a cheap raised garden bed is a great way to grow your own vegetables and herbs. The cost of raised garden beds can vary depending on the materials you use. Here are a few tips to keep costs down.
1. Use scrap or reused lumber: Reusing old garden beds, split rail fences, and scrap lumber can be the most cost-effective way to build a raised garden bed. If the wood is in decent shape, you can power wash and restain it for a fresh look and to protect against rot.
2. Shop for deals on hardware: Shopping around can help you find hardware, like corner brackets and screws, for cheaper than you’d find at your local hardware store. Ask around for friends who can help you find a great deal.
3. Line it with cardboard or newspaper: Newspaper or cardboard can be used to line the bottom of the bed instead of more expensive options such as landscape fabric. Both will decompose over time, bringing extra nutrients to your soil.
4. Grow your own soil: Instead of buying bags of precious and expensive potting soil, save money and grow your own with compost and nutrient-rich soil. Add compost, shredded leaves, and other materials to create a rich soil mix.
By following these tips, you can build a cheap raised garden bed and easily grow your own vegetables and herbs.
Can I make my own plant pots?
Yes, you can make your own plant pots! One popular method is to recycle old tin cans and jars. All you need to do is effectively clean out the can and remove the label, and then decorate it to your taste.
Another option is to use craft supplies, like felt, foam, or wicker, and shape it into a creative planter shape. Depending on what supplies you use, you can then paint or embellish your creation. You can also use terracotta pots, which are cheap and easy to find, or any other type of pottery.
With a bit of creativity, you can really make your own unique and eye-catching plant pots.
What do you put in the bottom of a planter for drainage?
Adding drainage material to the bottom of a planter is an important step in preventing plant roots from becoming waterlogged and dying. The type of material you place in the bottom of your planter will depend on the size and style of the planter you are using.
Generally, most people use a combination of materials to ensure drainage, such as rocks, pebbles, charcoal, a layer of activated clay, and potting soil. The rocks, pebbles, and charcoal are usually placed first to help create an environment of air and water movement to allow the roots to get oxygen.
On top of this, a thin layer of activated clay is added to provide a barrier between any remaining water and the soil, so that the roots do not become waterlogged. Finally, the potting soil is added in to provide a layer of rich, fertile material for the plants to grow in.
Can I use Styrofoam in a planter?
No, you should not use Styrofoam in a planter. Although Styrofoam is lightweight and easy to cut and shape, it is not the best choice for a planter. Styrofoam doesn’t allow water to drain properly, and when water is trapped against roots in the soil, there is potential for root rot.
Additionally, Styrofoam is difficult to disinfect, making it more prone to spreading diseases between plants in the planter. There are also environmental considerations because Styrofoam does not decompose in landfills.
Taking all these factors into account, it is best to avoid using Styrofoam in a planter and look for other materials that can serve the same purpose.
What is the cheapest way to build a planter box?
Building a planter box can be a relatively inexpensive and easy project. To do so, start by gathering the necessary materials – these include wood, nails, screws, a drill, saw, measuring tape and a sealer (optional).
Cut two pieces of wood for the sides of the box, making sure they are roughly the same size. Next, cut four pieces of wood for the rectangular frame and the center of the box. Nail the pieces together, creating a detailed box shape.
Once this is done, measure the inside of the box and cut out a piece of wood to fit the bottom. Nail the bottom piece into place. If a more finished look is desired, sand down the planter box and apply a sealant.
Finally, add the plants and soil of choice and enjoy the new planter box. This entire project can cost less than $100 depending on the materials chosen, making it an inexpensive and fun way to add greenery to any outdoor space.
Can you use plastic storage bins as planters?
Yes, you can use plastic storage bins as planters. Before using them for this purpose, however, it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure that it is a safe and suitable environment for the plants.
This includes making sure the container has adequate drainage holes in the bottom, using and appropriate soil, and ensuring the container is large enough for the type of plants you plan to grow. Additionally, you may need to modify your bin in some way to improve its ability to hold soil, such as lining it with a breathable material like burlap, as well as adding extra drainage holes in the sides or bottom of the container.
It is also important to keep in mind that plastic storage bins can be fragile, so once you have modified it, they should always be handled with care when moving or carrying. With proper preparation, though, plastic storage bins can make great and affordable planters!.
How do you fill a raised bed cheaply?
Filling a raised bed cheaply is easy to do if you plan ahead and shop around for the best prices. To get started, you’ll need to gather supplies like compost, mulch, and soil. Compost is a great way to add nutrients to your soil while also helping to retain moisture.
It is best to get compost made from organic materials like kitchen scraps and yard waste.
You can also find free sources of compost or even purchase bulk compost in bags or by the truckload. Once you’ve acquired your compost, you can layer it with mulch to help keep the soil moist and to improve the bed’s fertility.
You can also opt for a soil mix that consists of equal parts of compost, mulch, and soil.
Another economical option is to use a lightweight, expandable, and inexpensive soil mix specifically manufactured for raised beds. This type of mix is created specifically for raised beds and can provide all the nutrients your plants need to thrive without extra fertilizing.
When shopping for soil mixes, it’s important to read the ingredients carefully and choose a product that has the best blend of nutrients for your plants.
Finally, you can also consider using reclaimed soil from your own yard or garden to fill your raised bed. Reclaimed soil can be used to supplement your soil mix and may contain beneficial plant-friendly bacteria and minerals.
In addition to these materials, you can also consider adding a light layer of leaves or grass clippings to the top of your raised bed to help retain moisture and offer a slight bit of additional protection from the elements.
All of these materials can be used to fill your raised bed in an affordable way.
Do you have to line a planter box?
Yes, it is recommended that you line a planter box to prevent water from leaking and to protect the surrounding area from any damage. Lining a planter box will also help to provide adequate drainage for the plants and soil inside.
Landscaping fabric is a great option for lining a planter box because it is lightweight and allows for air and water flow. It also helps to prevent weeds from growing in the soil and can be easily used with drainage rocks.
Plastic liners are also an option and come in a variety of colors. They are generally easier to use than landscaping fabric, but are also not as breathable which can be detrimental to the health of your plants.
If you are looking for a longer-term option, you can also use pressure treated wood to line the sides of the planter box, which is both durable and aesthetically pleasing. Regardless of which option you choose, it is important to line your planter box to ensure long-term success with your plants.
What plants look good in planters?
The type of plants you choose to put in planters really depends on the size, shape, and purpose of the planter. For example, if you have a very small, square planter, you may want to look at succulents, cacti, or even small shrubs or small-leaved plants like Pothos, Jade Plants, and Calatheas.
If you are looking for full, rounded plants in your planter, larger shrubs, such as rosemary and lavender, and foliage plants like Ferns and Phlox can add a beautiful and lush look. If you’re looking to add a touch of color, Basket of Gold and Coleus, which come in a variety of shades, are great options.
And of course, if you’re looking for something that flowers, Petunias and Geraniums add bright and cheerful petals to planters. With so many choices, you can find the perfect plants for your planters!.
How do you decorate a container garden?
Decorating a container garden can involve a variety of techniques, depending on the type of plants, objects, and other features included in the design. Generally, the process starts with selecting a container and soil that are suitable for the plants that will be planted.
Once the container and plants are selected, the design of the container garden can involve layering elements such as gravel, rocks, driftwood, or other natural embellishments to create a visually appealing environment for the plants.
You can also place plants that trail down from the rim of the container, add decorative ornaments like lanterns, birdbaths, or art pieces to further enhance the design, or add trailing vines or plants that provide a climbing feature for the garden.
You could also use colored mulch to tie the look together. Ultimately, the design should consider the light exposure and watering needs of the different plants in the container, while also creating a pleasing aesthetic.
How many plants should you put in a container?
When deciding how many plants to put in a container it really depends on the size of the container and the type of plants. Generally speaking, if you have a larger container, such as a five-gallon pot, you should stick to one or two plants initially, as overcrowding can cause unhealthy growth.
However, if you have a small container such as a four-inch pot, you can typically fit three to four plants.
When selecting plants to place in your container, it’s important to consider crowding and sunlight. If you choose plants that require a lot of sun and overcrowd them, they will not be able to absorb enough light and will not do well.
On the other hand, if you choose plants that prefer shade, you can put more of them in one container. Additionally, if you want to create a multi-plant container, be sure to select plants with similar needs for lighting, water, and fertilizer for the healthiest growth.
Overall, it is important to match the suitable number of plants with the size of the container and the type of plants you are using. To be safe, it is best to start with one or two plants in a larger container and three to four plants in a smaller pot.
How do you use garden pots?
Garden pots are a great way to add style and functionality to your outdoor space. They’re perfect for gardening in tight spaces and areas with poor soil, as well as for adding a decorative touch to your landscape and bringing colour and texture to your garden.
To use garden pots, you’ll need to decide what kind of plant you’d like to grow and select a pot that’s large enough to accommodate it. Fill the pot with good quality soil and an appropriate fertilizer.
Make sure to add drainage holes to the bottom of your pot so the excess water can drain away. Place the pot in an area in your garden that gets the right amount of light and shade for the plant you’ve chosen.
Water the plant regularly, and don’t forget to mulch the pot to help it retain moisture and manage weeds in the soil.
With the right care, your garden pots will soon become a beautiful and thriving part of your landscape. Enjoy the pleasure of watching your plants grow and reap the rewards of a beautiful, healthy garden.
