If you love plants but don’t love the cost of decorative pots, you’re not alone. The good news? You can create stylish, eco-friendly planters using items you already have at home. From jars and cans to old shoes and kitchenware, there’s no limit to what you can repurpose. Here are some fun, budget-friendly ideas to get your creativity growing.

1. Mason Jars & Glass Containers

Perfect for: Herbs, succulents, small leafy plants
Glass jars make beautiful minimalist planters.
How to make it:

  • Clean the jar thoroughly.
  • Add a small layer of pebbles at the bottom for drainage.
  • Fill with potting soil and plant your green companion.
  • Tie twine or ribbon around the top for a rustic look.

Tip: If growing herbs, place the jar near a sunny kitchen window for easy snipping while cooking.

2. Tin Cans

Perfect for: Flowers, herbs, or small houseplants
Tin cans are sturdy, lightweight, and easy to customize.
How to make it:

  • Remove labels and wash the can.
  • Punch a few drainage holes at the bottom.
  • Paint or wrap with fabric, rope, or paper for a decorative touch.
  • Add soil and plants.

Bonus idea: Use multiple cans to create a charming vertical garden.

3. Old Mugs & Teacups

Perfect for: Succulents and cacti
Cracked or mismatched mugs make adorable mini planters.
How to make it:

  • Add a layer of small stones for drainage (most mugs don’t have holes).
  • Scoop in potting soil and plant a small succulent.
  • Display on a windowsill, shelf, or desk.

Why it works: The quirky, mismatched look adds character to any room.

4. Plastic Bottles

Perfect for: Hanging planters, self-watering pots, or kids’ craft projects
Plastic bottles are incredibly versatile.
How to make it:

  • Cut the bottle in half.
  • Use the top half as a hanging planter by adding string and soil.
  • Use the bottom half as a tabletop pot.
  • Decorate with paint, markers, or colored tape.

Eco bonus: This is a great way to reduce plastic waste while beautifying your space.

5. Colanders

Perfect for: Outdoor flowers and trailing plants
Colanders already come with built-in drainage holes—perfect for plants!
How to make it:

  • Line the inside with a bit of mesh or burlap to prevent soil from falling out.
  • Add soil and plant flowers or vines.
  • Hang using rope or place it on a patio.

Style tip: Vintage metal colanders add a charming farmhouse touch.

6. Old Shoes or Boots

Perfect for: Outdoor quirky planters
Before tossing old boots, consider giving them a second life.
How to make it:

  • Clean them out.
  • Drill a few drainage holes in the soles.
  • Fill with soil and plant flowers or small shrubs.

Visual impact: Boots look great on porches or garden paths.

7. Food Containers (Takeout Boxes, Yogurt Cups, etc.)

Perfect for: Seedlings and starter plants
These containers are ideal for early-stage gardening.
How to make it:

  • Clean thoroughly.
  • Add drainage holes.
  • Use them to start seeds before transferring to larger pots.

Tip: Clear takeout containers can serve as mini-greenhouses.

Final Thoughts

DIY planters are more than just a budget-friendly project—they’re a creative way to reduce waste and personalize your home or garden. With a little imagination, almost anything can be repurposed into a planter. Look around your home, pick an item you no longer use, and transform it into something beautiful.

Want help designing a specific planter idea or need images for this blog post? Just let me know! 🌿