hands on learning

Make a Garden Planter Out of a Recycled Container

You don’t need anything complicated to grow a container garden at home. In this activity you turn a recycled container into a planter pot. Watch the video below or simply follow the instructions to make your own planter.

You Will Need:

  • a used milk, juice or yogurt container (or any container you have on hand)

  • a small amount of soil (about 6 cups)

  • a packet of seeds (we planted wildflower seeds)

  • sharp scissors

  • a pen to poke drainage holes

  • a tray or larger container to catch drainage water (if you like)

 Instructions:

  • clean your recycled container so that it is free of food residue

  • decide what side of your container you want to be the top and what side will be the bottom

  • ask an adult to help poke about six drainage holes in the bottom of your container

  • ask an adult to help cut a rectangular opening in the top of the planter (skip this step if you are using a container with an open top)

  • fill your container about ¾ full with soil

  • plant your seeds according to the package directions

  • find a tray or larger container to put under your container (to catch any water that might drain out) 

  • water gently, place in a sunny location and wait for your seeds to grow

What other recycled items can you grow a garden in? Let us know your creative ideas!