Old Drawer Planters for a Quirky Garden Look

Introduction

Looking to add a touch of vintage charm and personality to your garden? Old drawer planters offer a unique and eco-friendly way to showcase your favorite plants. Repurposing old drawers not only reduces waste but also creates a whimsical and eye-catching garden display. This guide will explore how to transform discarded drawers into stunning planters, giving your garden a quirky and unforgettable look.

Repurposing Drawers: A Step-by-Step Guide

Finding the Perfect Drawers

• Antique Stores and Flea Markets: These are treasure troves for finding drawers with character and unique hardware.
• Garage Sales and Estate Sales: Often, you can snag drawers for a bargain.
• Online Marketplaces: Websites like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist can offer local deals on old furniture.
• Salvage Yards: These yards may hold drawers or dressers from which you can extract them.

Preparing the Drawers

1. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the drawers inside and out with soap and water. Remove any lingering dirt or debris.
2. Sanding: Lightly sand the exterior to smooth rough edges and create a better surface for paint or sealant.
3. Sealing: Apply a waterproof sealant to both the interior and exterior of the drawer. This protects the wood from moisture and prevents rot, ensuring the planter lasts longer. Focus on joints and edges.
4. Drainage: Drill drainage holes in the bottom of the drawer to allow excess water to escape. Proper drainage is essential for healthy plant growth.

Choosing the Right Soil and Plants

Soil Selection

• Potting Mix: Use a high-quality potting mix that provides good drainage and aeration. Avoid garden soil, as it can compact and suffocate roots.
• Drainage Layer: Add a layer of gravel or pebbles at the bottom of the drawer before adding soil to further improve drainage.

Plant Selection

• Succulents and Cacti: These drought-tolerant plants thrive in well-draining soil and add a modern touch.
• Herbs: Plant herbs like basil, mint, and thyme for a fragrant and practical addition to your garden.
• Flowers: Choose colorful flowers like petunias, pansies, or impatiens for a vibrant display. Consider cascading varieties that will spill over the edges of the drawer.
• Vegetables: Smaller vegetables like lettuce, radishes, and herbs can thrive in drawer planters.

Arranging Your Drawer Planters

• Stacking: Create a tiered effect by stacking drawers of different sizes.
• Grouping: Arrange several drawer planters together to create a focal point in your garden.
• Mounting: Mount drawer planters on a wall or fence for a vertical garden display. Ensure the wall can handle the weight, especially when the drawers are filled with soil and plants.

Finishing Touches and Decor

• Painting: Paint the drawers in vibrant colors or vintage-inspired hues to match your garden décor.
• Distressing: Use sandpaper to distress the paint and create a weathered look.
• Hardware: Replace or update the drawer pulls for a customized touch.
• Labels: Add labels to identify the plants in each drawer. You can use chalkboard paint or create custom labels with a printer.
• Accessories: Incorporate small garden accessories like miniature figurines, pebbles, or fairy lights to enhance the visual appeal.

Maintaining Your Drawer Planters

• Watering: Water regularly, but avoid overwatering. Check the soil moisture before watering.
• Fertilizing: Feed your plants with a balanced fertilizer according to the package instructions.
• Pruning: Prune your plants regularly to encourage healthy growth and maintain their shape.
• Pest Control: Monitor your plants for pests and diseases. Treat any infestations promptly with organic pest control methods.

Conclusion

Transforming old drawers into unique planters is a fantastic way to add character and charm to your garden. With a little creativity and effort, you can create a whimsical and eco-friendly garden display that will be the envy of your neighbors. So, get searching for those hidden treasures and start building your own quirky drawer planter garden today! Remember to consider drainage, soil selection, and plant choices for a thriving and beautiful display.