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Are Store-Bought Planters a Rip-Off? Try DIY Instead

May 9, 2025 by Teri Monroe 2 Comments

DIY Planter Ideas
Image Source: Pexels

Store-bought planters can cost you hundreds of dollars. Each one can run you on average around $30. Some designer pots cost hundreds of dollars each! If you’re trying to be cost-conscious, you may want to consider DIY planters. Here we’ll discuss why store-bought planters are a ripoff and also give you some DIY planter ideas.

Marked Up Prices

Usually, when you buy store-bought planters, you’re paying for brand names, trends, and inflation. If you DIY your planters, you’ll spend much less on raw materials. Plus, you’ll be able to customize the finished product and make a one-of-a-kind design.

They Won’t Last Long

Store-bought planters are often made of cheap materials. You’ll probably get something made of thin plastic or poorly-made ceramic. These planters probably won’t withstand the elements, and you’ll find yourself replacing them every year. If you invest in quality materials, your cost over time will be much less.

Boring Styles

You’ll probably see the same types of planters year after year. If you really want to jazz up your garden, store-bought planters aren’t the way to go. Instead, let your imagination run wild as you plan your DIY planter project.

DIY Planter Ideas

Here we’ll help you get inspired to create your own planters so that you don’t get ripped off at the store! Here are a few genius ideas to incorporate into your garden.

Revamped Dresser

If you want an eclectic look in your garden, you can repurpose an old dresser. The drawers can act as your planters. Using cascading plants in the drawers will look fantastic. Paint your dresser a vibrant color to make a statement in your garden. You can even use stencils or paint a mural on your dresser if you’re very crafty.

Shoes

If you have any old shoes that you’re ready to get rid of, why not turn them into a planter instead? Rain boots and combat boots make great planters that really stand out. You can even use sneakers or clogs for smaller plants. Make sure to waterproof any fabric!

Mason Jars

Mason jars and jam jars are the perfect size for herbs and succulents. You can even paint the mason jars for a more rustic farmhouse look. Chalkboard paint can even be used to label your herbs. The more mason jars you use, the more cohesive your garden will look.

Buckets and Tins

Antique buckets and tins make great planters. Shop at your local antique store for the most unique finds. All you have to do is drill a hole in the bottom. Then, you’ll have an instant planter.

Why DIY Planters Are The Way to Go

Not only will you save money with DIY planters, but you’ll be able to customize them. Additionally, many of these DIY options are more sustainable. You can easily reuse things that you already own or items from nature. Overall, your garden will look less cookie-cutter if you go the DIY planter route and avoid the store-bought run-of-the-mill planters. Keep in mind that some DIY planters, like wooden planters, will need to be waterproofed and sealed. This will extend their lifespan and protect them from water damage.

Read More

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Photograph of Teri Monroe
Teri Monroe

Teri Monroe started her career in communications working for local government and nonprofits. Today, she is a freelance finance and lifestyle writer and small business owner. In her spare time, she loves golfing with her husband, taking her dog Milo on long walks, and playing pickleball with friends.

Filed Under: garden decor Tagged With: DIY Planters, planters, store-bought planters

Previous Post: « 15 Low-Cost Garden Ideas That Will Wow Your Neighbors
Next Post: No Yard, No Problem: How Urban Gardening Is Changing City Life »

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Jan

    May 23, 2025 at 1:11 am

    Hi I wonder what you do with containers that do not have holes, like mason jors. Do you add gravel to the bottom? Do clay beads work out? I have an overwatering tendency and want to know how to manage these types of items! Also what if you want to water from below?

    Reply
    • Susan Paige

      June 23, 2025 at 11:14 am

      Hello! You can add something like rocks or beads to drain the water better at the bottom. However, it is also possible to drill holes in other containers (like mason jars). This video is a pretty helpful how-to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=os99L711VmU

      Reply

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