Great outdoor planters don’t need to be expensive. We’ve got you covered with five effortless ways to create decorative cheap planters that are both easy on the eyes and your wallet!
By Melina Gillies, The Family Handyman
Wrap It Up
Garden twine is a useful tool for any gardener, especially as a cheap and cheerful addition to any planter. With a little hot glue and some imagination, you can create almost any look you like. Wrap an entire run-of-the-mill plastic planter with twine for an industrial look, or cover only a portion to give your decorative cheap planters a modern edge. Twine is also easily painted, so consider adding a colorful stripe to the middle section of twine with spray paint for an extra pop of color, or group pots together with assorted colors to accent your other outdoor decor. The only limitation to any planter is to ensure that the size of the planter matches the size of the plants you want to display.
Add Some Mediterranean Flair
Terracotta planters are a versatile and inexpensive way to house your favorite plants. However, their plain facade can be less than inspiring. Applying a mosaic finish will ensure you have a one of a kind planter, and will allow you to channel your inner Greek, by smashing some plates to create the mosaic.
All you need is some craft mastic, grout and unwanted tableware—be sure to check local thrift shops and garage sales for one-off pieces with attractive designs and colors. Remember to don protective glasses and gloves and smash away with a mallet to create varied pieces of mosaic.
Use Paint
Arguably the easiest way to dress up cheap decorative planters is through spray paint. From matte to gloss or chalky finish, spray paint has come a long way in providing homeowners with the ultimate choice in finish and color—however, be sure to choose an exterior grade paint for best results.
To make your finish last, clean the planter thoroughly and let dry before painting the exterior, and be sure to paint the container before planting to protect the delicate foliage. And while the result will be beautiful, it may also attract the attention of the animal variety.
Embrace the Rustic
Sometimes finding a cheap planter can mean it needs a little TLC to come to life. Consider embracing the rustic and creating a unique statement by adding new accents to an old planter. Cast iron urns are a traditional choice. However, they can rust over time leaving a well-loved patina which can be of benefit to your decor style.
Dress up a used urn with a burlap bow and monochrome plants to create elegant country charm, or plant with bright colors for an unexpected contrast. By letting the passage of time show in your planter, you can end up adding a purposeful fresh style to your outdoor space.
Think Outside the Planter
One of the best things about creating cheap decorative planters is that almost anything can become a planter! From bicycle baskets to old bathtubs there are endless ways to add outdoor planters that will match your unique style and boost your curb appeal. An old pair of rubber boots with climbing flowers are the perfect cheap planters for a porch or garden, however, be sure to cut adequate drainage holes and use quality potting soil to prevent the roots from rotting. One thing is sure, there are no limits to what you can create, so get out there and search for cheap finds to do the trick—and now that you’ve mastered the art of dressing up your cheap planters, learn how to start a garden that will be the envy of the neighborhood!
