Are you looking to spruce up your outdoor space? Maybe you have a small patio or balcony that could use some greenery, but you’re not sure where to start. One simple and effective way to add some life to your outdoor area is by using outdoor planters. Whether you have a green thumb or not, there are plenty of creative and practical ways to incorporate planters into your outdoor decor. Here are some outdoor planter ideas to inspire you and transform your outdoor space.
Table of Contents
- Outdoor Planter Ideas
- Old Crate Planters
- Cedar Hexagon Planters
- Vertical Garden Pots
- Concrete Planters
- Upcycled Containers
- Tiered Planters
- Wheelbarrow Planters
- Hanging Grapevine Baskets
- Repurposed Wooden Gutters
- Ladder Planters
- Recycled Tire Planters
- Pallet Planter Box
- Wine Barrel Planters
- Metal Trough Planters
- Hanging Shoe Organizer Planter
- Stacked Stone Planters
- Tree Stump Planter
- Cinder Block Planters
- PVC Pipe Planters
- Birdcage Planter
- Teacup Planters
- Suitcase Planter
- Gutter Garden
- Concrete Block Bench Planter
- Tire Swing Planter
Outdoor Planter Ideas
Creating beautiful outdoor planters can transform your garden, porch, or patio into a vibrant and inviting space. These creative ideas utilize a variety of materials and repurposed items to add character and charm to your outdoor areas.
Old Crate Planters
Old crate planters are a perfect option for a rustic garden look. They are easy to find and can be stacked or arranged in different ways. Consider painting or staining the crates to match your garden theme. Ensure proper drainage by drilling holes in the bottom and lining the crates with landscaping fabric. Fill them with your favorite flowers or herbs for a charming display.
Cedar Hexagon Planters
Cedar hexagon planters bring a geometric and modern touch to your garden. Cedar wood is naturally resistant to rot and insects, making it durable and long-lasting. These planters can be crafted in different sizes to accommodate various plants. Arrange them in clusters for a striking visual effect. The hexagonal shape allows for creative layering and interlocking designs.
Vertical Garden Pots
Vertical garden pots are ideal for small spaces. They can maximize your planting area on a patio or balcony. Choose stackable pots or wall-mounted planters to create a green wall. This setup is perfect for growing herbs, succulents, and flowering plants. Ensure that plants receive adequate light and water, using drip irrigation if possible.
Concrete Planters
Concrete planters are durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions. They come in various shapes and sizes, making them versatile for any garden style. You can mold your own planters using concrete mixes and molds. Adding pigments can customize their color to match your outdoor decor. These planters work well for large plants or trees.
Upcycled Containers
Upcycled containers give a second life to items like teapots, tin cans, and old buckets. They add a unique and personal touch to your garden. Ensure proper drainage by adding holes to the bottom of these containers. Use them to plant small flowers, herbs, or succulents. Painting or decorating the containers can enhance their appearance.
Tiered Planters
Tiered planters offer a layered planting design. They are excellent for showcasing a variety of plants in a compact space. You can build tiered planters from wood or metal. Each layer should have good drainage to prevent waterlogging. This setup is perfect for herbs, flowers, and small vegetables, allowing easy access and maintenance.
Wheelbarrow Planters
Wheelbarrow planters add a whimsical and functional element to your garden. Old or new wheelbarrows can be repurposed as mobile planters. Fill them with soil and plant your favorite flowers or vegetables. Their mobility allows you to move them around for optimal sunlight and decorative placement. Ensure proper drainage by drilling holes in the bottom.
Hanging Grapevine Baskets
Hanging grapevine baskets provide a natural and rustic look. These baskets are great for trailing plants like ivy, petunias, or ferns. They are lightweight and can be hung from porches, pergolas, or tree branches. Line the baskets with coconut coir or sphagnum moss to retain moisture and support the plants.
Repurposed Wooden Gutters
Repurposed wooden gutters can be turned into long, narrow planters. They are ideal for planting herbs and small flowers. Attach them to walls or fences to create a vertical garden. Ensure adequate drainage and reinforce the gutters if necessary to hold the weight of the soil and plants. This setup saves space and adds greenery to vertical surfaces.
Ladder Planters
Ladder planters utilize old wooden ladders as plant stands. Each step can hold a pot or planter box. This vertical arrangement is perfect for patios, balconies, or garden nooks. Secure the ladder to a stable surface to prevent tipping. Use it to display a variety of plants, creating a cascading effect.
Recycled Tire Planters
Recycled tire planters are an eco-friendly and creative option. Tires can be painted and arranged in stacks or hung from trees. Fill them with soil and plant flowers or small shrubs. Their rubber material is durable and can withstand outdoor conditions. Ensure proper drainage by cutting holes in the bottom.
Pallet Planter Box
Pallet planter boxes utilize recycled wooden pallets for a rustic garden touch. Disassemble the pallets to create planter boxes of various sizes. These boxes can hold flowers, herbs, or vegetables. Ensure good drainage and consider applying a wood sealant for longevity. Palette planters are sturdy and add a farmhouse feel to your garden.
Wine Barrel Planters
Wine barrel planters add a touch of history and elegance. Half barrels work well as large planters for trees, shrubs, or flowers. Drill drainage holes at the bottom and fill with high-quality soil. Their wooden structure provides good insulation for roots. These planters are perfect for creating focal points in your garden.
Metal Trough Planters
Metal trough planters provide a sleek, industrial look. They are typically made from galvanized steel, which is rust-resistant. Their elongated shape makes them ideal for growing vegetables, herbs, or flowers. Ensure adequate drainage holes are present. Consider elevating the troughs on stands to improve accessibility and reduce bending.
Hanging Shoe Organizer Planter
Hanging shoe organizer planters are a creative way to utilize vertical space. The pockets can be filled with soil and used to grow herbs, flowers, or succulents. Hang the organizer on a fence, wall, or balcony railing. Ensure the material is durable and has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Stacked Stone Planters
Stacked stone planters provide a natural and timeless look. You can stack stones to create planters of any size and shape. These planters blend seamlessly with garden landscapes. Ensure stability by properly leveling the base and securing the stones. They are excellent for growing succulents, perennials, and small shrubs.
Tree Stump Planter
Tree stump planters utilize old tree stumps as natural planters. Hollow out the center of the stump to create a planting cavity. Fill it with soil and plant flowers, ferns, or shrubs. This method recycles the stump and integrates it into your garden. Ensure the stump is in a suitable location for optimal growth conditions.
Cinder Block Planters
Cinder block planters are simple and versatile. Arrange cinder blocks in various configurations to create unique planters. Each block can hold small plants or flowers. The blocks’ porous nature provides good drainage. You can paint or stain the blocks to match your garden theme. This option is cost-effective and highly customizable.
PVC Pipe Planters
PVC pipe planters are lightweight and easy to construct. Cut pipes to the desired length and drill drainage holes. These pipes can be arranged vertically or horizontally to create interesting displays. They are perfect for growing herbs, strawberries, or small flowers. Securely anchor the pipes to prevent tipping or rolling.
Birdcage Planter
Birdcage planters add a decorative and vintage touch to your garden. These planters are ideal for trailing plants like ivy or small flowering plants. Line the cage with moss or coconut coir to hold soil and moisture. Hang or place the birdcage in a prominent spot to showcase its charm.
Teacup Planters
Teacup planters bring a whimsical and delicate element to your outdoor space. Use old or unused teacups and saucers. These small planters are perfect for succulents or small flowers. Ensure proper drainage by adding pebbles to the bottom. Arrange them on tables, shelves, or garden nooks for a charming display.
Suitcase Planter
Suitcase planters repurpose old suitcases into unique garden containers. Line the suitcase with plastic to protect it from moisture. Fill with soil and plant your favorite flowers or herbs. These planters can be left open or closed for different visual effects. They add a quirky and vintage feel to any garden space.
Gutter Garden
Gutter gardens recycle old gutters into long, narrow planters. Mount the gutters on walls or fences to create vertical garden spaces. They are perfect for growing herbs, strawberries, or small flowers. Ensure proper drainage and support for the gutters. This method maximizes space and adds greenery to vertical structures.
Concrete Block Bench Planter
Concrete block bench planters combine seating and planting in one. Arrange concrete blocks to create a bench with integrated planters at each end. These planters can hold small shrubs, flowers, or herbs. Ensure the structure is stable and safe for sitting. This design adds functionality and greenery to your garden seating areas.
Tire Swing Planter
Tire swing planters repurpose old tires into playful garden containers. To make one, hang a tire horizontally from a sturdy tree branch. Then, fill the inner circle with soil and plant trailing flowers or vines. This planter adds a fun, nostalgic touch to your garden. Make sure to securely hang the tire and ensure it is safe for outdoor use.
