Plants are one of the most uplifting and versatile interior design elements you can incorporate into your home. Additionally, adding captivating landscaping elements outdoors can increase curb appeal, making your home easier to sell when the time comes.
If you’re bored of terra cotta pots, here are some interesting objects in which you can plant seeds and decorate your home.
Lightbulbs
Don’t throw away your burnt-out lightbulbs just yet. These little globes are perfect for singular plants or hanging wildflower arrangements. Use an old lightbulb to plant a succulent, which will love the heat provided by being enclosed in glass. You can tie up your bulbs with macrame or twine and plant herb starters via My Seed Needs.
Lightbulbs are also great for starting cuttings with water, as you can see when the roots start to sprout.
Fish Bowl
If you have an old, unused fishbowl, you have an indoor planter waiting to happen. Fishbowls are perfect for creating miniature gardens with moss and small flowers or creating a terrarium with desert plants and succulents.
Mint Tin
Mint tin gardens are a hot trend in the miniature crafting movement. Using an old mint tin and the right combination of shallow-rooting plants, you can create a tiny paradise for your desk or windowsill.
Baskets
Wicker baskets are a common design element in homes. Instead of using all of your baskets as chic storage options, you can also use them for indoor plants. Either plant directly into the basket or use it to hide a planter and better suit your room’s ambiance.
Tin Cans
Tin cans make great little planters, especially for seedlings, food cuttings, and herbs. These fit nicely on a window sill or can be mounted to an interior or exterior wall.
Teapots
Old teapots make for a lovely planter and even nicer gift once everything starts to grow. You can use teapots to create a miniature English garden with wildflowers or a succulent garden that lasts for years.
For a whimsical, Alice in Wonderland inspired look, hang your teapot planter on a hook so that it tips slightly. Then, plant ivy or another vine-type plant so that it grows through the spout.
Rain Boots
Repurposing colorful rainboots adds a fun, vibrant effect to an outdoor garden. It’s also a great way to deal with children’s boots that no longer fit or have incurred damage over the years.
Rain boots are great for tulip bulbs and other seasonal plants that tend to require mulch and winter protection— just take the boots inside and put them in a warm, dark cabinet for the winter season.
Toy Trucks
Old toy trucks and tractors invoke the same playfulness as rain boots when used as planters. They make a great display for a child’s room or a functional memento when that child grows out of their toys. Plant shallow-rooting plants or vines to make the most of this whimsical planter.
Broken Fountain or Bird Bath
Old, damaged fountains and birdbaths make beautiful planters. You can even take these inside to an entryway or sunny landing for an incredible piece of art.
Look at your local yard sales for a stone, multi-tiered piece that no longer words. Rather than replacing a motor or using a fountain as a birdbath, you can plant an array of stunning flowers and greenery for a decor piece that overflows with life.
Wheelbarrow
If your old wheelbarrow is starting to rust out, fear not. Make it a part of the landscape that it helped sow over the years. Add dirt and some vibrant flowers for a rustic, country-inspired look that you’ll love.
Get creative and think outside the pot when looking for planters. If it holds dirt, it has potential.