Why Upcycled Planters Are Perfect for Your Geraniums

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 n American gardening culture, there’s a huge love for DIY and repurposing. This practice, known as upcycling, turns discarded items into creative, functional works of art—and it’s a brilliant way to house your favorite flowering plants: Geraniums (Pelargoniums).

Geraniums are robust, sun-loving flowers that thrive when given proper drainage. Upcycling allows you to create planters with unique character and the perfect conditions for your blooms, all while being sustainable and budget-friendly. Instead of buying a generic pot, you can give an old object a new, colorful life as a stunning floral display.

Top 4 Repurposing Ideas for Geranium Planters

The key to any upcycled planter for a geranium is excellent drainage. Before planting, you must drill, punch, or cut holes into the bottom of your repurposed container to allow excess water to escape.

1. The Vintage Tool or Tin Box

Old metal toolboxes, lunchboxes, or galvanized wash tubs offer a wonderful, rustic, or “farmhouse chic” aesthetic. They are often shallow, which is great for geraniums, but require a critical modification.

  • The Transformation: Use a metal drill bit to create several drainage holes in the bottom. For a deep tub, consider adding a layer of gravel or broken pottery before your potting soil to improve aeration.
  • The Look: The aged, weathered patina of the metal beautifully contrasts with the bold, bright reds and pinks of a zonal geranium.

2. The Functional Colander or Strainer

A colander (or large metal kitchen strainer) is arguably the easiest item to upcycle into a planter—it already has dozens of holes!

  • The Transformation: Line the bottom of the colander with a piece of breathable landscaping fabric or a coffee filter to prevent the soil from washing out. Since the sides are open, it offers fantastic root aeration.
  • The Look: Hang it from a porch hook with some chain for a whimsical, cascading effect. Ivy geraniums, known for their trailing habit, look particularly striking spilling out of a hanging colander.
Geraniums

Geraniums

3. The Decorative Old Tire

Used car tires are durable, readily available, and can be completely transformed with a can of spray paint. This is a favorite method for large-scale outdoor displays.

  • The Transformation: Ensure the tire is thoroughly cleaned. Place a piece of wood or mesh across the bottom opening to act as a base, then line the inside with a plastic sheet before adding your soil. Crucially, drill drainage holes through the plastic and the bottom of the tire itself.
  • The Look: Paint the tire a vibrant color like turquoise or lime green for a modern pop art feel, or use a neutral color like terracotta for a more understated look. Stack three different sized tires for a tiered flower fountain effect.

4. The Classic Drawer or Suitcase

An antique wooden dresser drawer or a forgotten vintage suitcase can be converted into a gorgeous, unique planter for a porch or garden vignette.

  • The Transformation: Line the inside with plastic sheeting (like a heavy-duty trash bag or pond liner) to protect the wood from moisture. Staple the plastic in place and then cut a few drainage slits through the bottom.
  • The Look: These planters are perfect for creating a layered look. Place the drawer on an angle or leave the suitcase lid ajar to showcase the vibrant geraniums spilling out, creating a true conversation piece.

By choosing to upcycle, you are not only giving your geraniums a beautiful, customized home, but you’re also adding personality, sustainability, and a touch of homegrown charm to your outdoor space.

Article copyright by GreenShip

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