There are many benefits to having plants and trees at home, as their presence adds a sense of freshness and comfort to the space. However, gardening supplies can sometimes be expensive. Therefore, making planting pots at home—either by reusing household items or creating them from raw materials—is a practical, easy, and low-cost solution.
Steps to Make a Planting Pot at Home
Making a planting pot is a simple and enjoyable activity when following these steps:
Preparing the Clay
Bring an amount of clay suitable for the desired pot size. Press it firmly to remove all trapped air, then roll it into a smooth, even ball.
Forming the Basic Structure of the Pot
Press your finger into the center of the clay ball to create a hollow cavity, making sure not to pierce through the other side. Keep the base closed to form the bottom of the pot.
Thinning the Pot
This enjoyable step involves gently pressing the pot’s structure between your thumb and index finger, applying even pressure until the sides and base become uniformly thin.
Smoothing the Pot
Once the pot is shaped, smooth its surface to remove any bumps or irregularities. This can be done by wiping it with a damp cloth or gently rubbing it with a wet finger.
Drying
Leave the pot to air-dry, then place it in the oven to harden and remove any remaining moisture. High heat also helps open pores that allow better soil aeration.
Painting the Pot
After ensuring the pot is completely dry, paint it using your preferred colors. Once the paint dries, a glossy finish can be applied to give the pot a more elegant appearance.
Other Materials That Can Be Used to Make Planting Pots
Concrete can also be used to create planting pots in various shapes and designs. All you need is cement, water, and a mold—such as a cylindrical cardboard container and a paper cup.
After mixing the cement with water, place the cup inside the container and stabilize it with gravel. Pour the cement around the cup and leave it to dry overnight. Once dry, remove both the cup and the container to reveal the planting pot.
Recycling Household Waste to Make Planting Pots
Many household items we discard daily can be reused to create modern and sustainable planting pots, including:
- Wooden Crates: Clean sturdy wooden crates and drill drainage holes at the bottom. Fill them with soil and plant directly. They can also be painted in bright colors.
- Burlap Sacks: A creative and eco-friendly option. Made from biodegradable natural materials, burlap sacks allow good soil aeration. Simply fill them with suitable soil and plant directly.
- Glass Jars: Ideal for small to medium-sized plants due to their limited space requirements. Jars can be painted and decorated with artistic designs.
- Tea Cups: Especially those with wide openings, they add a charming look to small plants.
- Hanging Tires: Old tires can be used as wall-mounted hanging planters. They can be painted in multiple colors and decorated with flowers for a more attractive appearance.
