A Little Junk, A Lot of Magic
Ever looked at an old tire or rusty wheelbarrow and thought, “Hmm, I should throw this away”?
Well, hang on!
That so-called junk might just be your next garden masterpiece. I used to toss broken stuff out without a second thought, but once I got into junk gardening, everything changed.
It’s fun, it’s cheap, and it adds so much character to your space.
Why Junk Gardens Are Totally Worth It
Turning junk into garden gold isn’t just budget-friendly—it’s a creative outlet. Plus, you get to reuse and recycle, which is a win for the environment.
Here’s why I swear by junk gardening:
- Saves Money: You’re reusing what you already have
- Adds Personality: No one else has your exact setup
- Great Conversation Starters: Guests always notice
- Reduces Waste: One less thing going to the landfill
Whether you’re new to this or already experimenting, these ideas are real, practical, and totally doable.
1. Bathtub Flower Beds
I had an old clawfoot tub in my backyard that I didn’t know what to do with—so I planted petunias in it, and boom: instant charm.
- Place your tub in a sunny spot
- Drill a few drainage holes if needed
- Fill with a mix of potting soil and compost
Design Tips:
- Paint the tub a funky color for a pop
- Surround it with gravel or mulch to make it stand out
- Mix tall and trailing plants for visual interest
2. Toolbox Planters
You know those metal toolboxes that are too rusty to use but too cool to toss? Fill them with succulents!
- Line with landscape fabric to protect the metal
- Use cactus soil or sand-based potting mix
- Add pebbles at the bottom for drainage
Key Points:
- Perfect for herbs or low-maintenance plants
- Looks amazing on a potting bench or patio shelf
- Handles make it portable, so you can move it around
3. Broken Chair Plant Stand
I broke the seat on one of my dining chairs, but I couldn’t bear to throw it away. Now? It’s a quirky plant stand.
- Remove broken seat
- Place a flower pot where the seat used to be
- Secure with wire or zip ties if needed
Quick Tips:
- Paint or distress the wood for a rustic vibe
- Try placing it near your front porch for charm
- Works great for ferns, ivy, or spider plants
4. Bicycle Garden Decor
Old bikes make for incredibly charming garden pieces. I found one at a thrift store, gave it a coat of teal paint, and leaned it against my fence.
- Attach baskets to front/back and fill with flowers
- Let vines grow around the frame
- Park it in a visible corner of the yard
Styling Tips:
- Use colorful baskets for contrast
- Try marigolds, pansies, or even small herbs
- Great way to upcycle kid’s bikes too!
5. Colander Hanging Baskets
Yes, I’m serious. Those old metal colanders with handles? They’re already perforated, so they’re basically ready-made hanging baskets.
- Add coconut liner or moss inside
- Fill with soil and plant trailing flowers
- Hang with sturdy chain or rope
Best Uses:
- Ideal for balconies or fences
- Use for strawberries, petunias, or even lettuce
- Super lightweight and easy to hang
6. Tire Planters
Okay, this one’s a classic—but I’ve got a twist. I don’t just stack them; I hang tires vertically on fences or walls.
- Paint the tires bright colors
- Mount with strong brackets or chains
- Fill with trailing plants or flowers
Why I Love It:
- Adds height and dimension
- Perfect for urban gardens
- Doubles as artsy wall decor
7. Kitchen Sink Herb Garden
That chipped ceramic sink you removed during a reno? It’s now my basil and mint haven.
- Plug or seal the drain
- Layer gravel, then potting mix
- Plant your favorite kitchen herbs
Pro Tip:
- Place near your back door for easy access
- Decorate the basin with tiles or stones
- Label herbs with painted spoons or forks
8. Dresser Drawer Garden
Yes, I dragged an old dresser outside. Each drawer became its own mini garden.
- Pull drawers out at varying lengths
- Line with plastic to prevent rot
- Fill with different plants per drawer
Design Tips:
- Use different soil types for variety
- Label each drawer with a chalkboard tag
- Place on your porch or under a shady tree
9. Teapot and Kettle Planters
Those vintage teapots from grandma’s attic? They now hold succulents on my garden table.
- Drill a small drainage hole if possible
- Add a layer of pebbles, then soil
- Plant tiny succulents or cacti
Quick Ideas:
- Display on windowsills or outdoor tables
- Great as centerpieces for garden parties
- Mix and match colors and shapes for whimsy
10. Crib Frame Trellis
That old baby crib? Don’t toss it—use the side rails as a vertical trellis!
- Separate the frame rails
- Stand them vertically in your garden
- Train vines like morning glories or peas to climb
Creative Tips:
- Paint for a bold contrast
- Add hooks for hanging tools or lights
- Great for narrow garden spaces
11. Drawer Side Tables for Pots
I had a couple old drawers that didn’t fit anything. Now they’re cute side tables with potted plants.
- Flip drawers over or attach short legs
- Place potted plants on top
- Use bottom area for small decor or watering cans
Best Features:
- Compact and portable
- Works well on patios or balconies
- Paint or stencil for extra flair
12. Washing Machine Drum Planter
I picked up a busted washing machine and salvaged the drum—it’s now my go-to for root veggies.
- Clean out the drum thoroughly
- Line with landscape fabric
- Add a deep layer of soil and compost
Why It Works:
- Perfect depth for carrots, radishes
- Adds an industrial look
- Great aeration and drainage
13. Shutter Garden Wall
Old window shutters can easily be repurposed into vertical wall gardens.
- Attach shutters to a wall or fence
- Add small pots or mason jars to slats
- Use herbs, succulents, or trailing flowers
Design Perks:
- Creates a living wall
- Ideal for small urban spaces
- Adds texture and charm to boring walls
14. Muffin Tin Mini Planters
I use these to start seedlings on my windowsill. Super handy!
- Drill small holes in each cup for drainage
- Fill with seed-starting soil
- Label each spot with mini sticks or markers
What I Love:
- Perfect size for starting herbs
- Fits on any sunny ledge
- Easy to move around
15. Picture Frame Garden Sign
Grab an old frame, some wood backing, and paint a cute welcome sign for your garden.
- Use chalkboard paint or waterproof markers
- Hang it on a post, gate, or wall
- Add embellishments like faux flowers or knobs
Fun Details:
- Totally customizable
- Helps create a theme or vibe
- Makes your garden feel more personal
16. Filing Cabinet Planter
Old metal filing cabinets are surprisingly deep and perfect for planting.
- Remove drawers
- Drill drainage holes at the bottom
- Fill with soil and plant shrubs, flowers, or even tomatoes
Pro Suggestions:
- Spray paint in bright colors
- Place against a fence for back support
- Add casters for mobility
17. Headboard Garden Fence
Turn that wooden or metal headboard into a unique mini fence.
- Stand vertically and secure with stakes
- Use as a backdrop for flowers
- Add hooks for hanging lanterns or pots
Standout Points:
- Adds visual separation
- Super easy to set up
- Great way to frame a flower bed
18. Vintage Birdcage Planter
Found an old birdcage at a yard sale—it’s now hanging in my pergola full of ivy!
- Line with moss or coco liner
- Add lightweight soil and trailing plants
- Hang from a tree or pergola
Why It’s a Winner:
- Adds vertical beauty
- Unique centerpiece for outdoor seating areas
- Great for shade-loving plants
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even junk gardens need a little planning! Here’s what to watch out for:
- Skipping drainage: Always ensure water can escape
- Using untreated metal or wood: May rust or rot
- Overloading one area: Spread pieces around to avoid clutter
- Not anchoring vertical items: Safety first!
FAQs
Can I start a junk garden in a small space?
Absolutely! Think vertically—use hanging baskets, wall planters, or even windowsills. A junk garden can thrive on a tiny balcony just as easily as in a big backyard.
How do I make sure my junk garden is safe?
Always check for sharp edges, rust, or anything that could cause injury. Sand down rough parts, and use sealants or liners when needed.
What plants work best in junk garden setups?
Succulents, herbs, and hardy flowers like marigolds and petunias are great choices. They’re low-maintenance and look amazing in quirky containers.
Can I paint or decorate junk items before using them?
Yes! In fact, I recommend it. A splash of color can turn something ordinary into a garden showstopper. Just make sure to use outdoor-safe paint.
Final Thoughts
Turning junk into joy is one of the most satisfying things you can do in your garden. It’s creative, sustainable, and a total conversation starter.
Whether you go big with a dresser planter or small with a teacup of succulents, your garden will thank you—and so will your wallet!