Transforming an old bathtub into a unique garden planter is one of my favorite projects because it’s a fantastic way to give new life to something that might otherwise end up in a landfill. I remember the first time I attempted this – it was a sunny Saturday morning, and I stumbled upon an old, rusty bathtub at a yard sale. My friends thought I had lost my marbles, but my imagination started running wild with ideas. Today, I’m excited to share with you the steps to create your own eye-catching garden planter from an old bathtub. Let’s dig in!
### What’s in Your Bathtub Planter?
For this project, you won’t need much beyond the bathtub and a few materials, but let’s break it down:
Old Bathtub: The star of the show! I recommend a cast-iron tub if you can find one, as they are durable and have a vintage charm.
Drill with a Bit: You’ll need this to create drainage holes. Proper drainage is essential for keeping your plants healthy.
Landscaping Fabric: This will help keep your soil in while allowing water to drain. You can find this at any gardening center.
Potting Soil: A quality potting mix will ensure your plants have the nutrients they need to thrive. Look for a mix that contains organic matter for extra nourishment.
Plants/Flowers: Choose whatever tickles your fancy! I love having a combination of colorful flowers and fragrant herbs.
### Is Turning an Old Bathtub into a Garden Planter Good for You?
Absolutely! Not only is this project eco-friendly, but gardening has tremendous health benefits.
Stress Relief: Digging in the dirt and nurturing plants can be therapeutic. It brings a sense of calm and joy as you watch your plants grow.
Physical Activity: Gardening is a great way to stay active. It gets you moving more than you might realize – it’s all that digging, sowing, and watering!
Homegrown Produce: If you choose to plant vegetables or herbs, you can enjoy fresh, organic produce right from your backyard, reducing your carbon footprint.
### Ingredients for Your Garden Planter
– 1 Old Bathtub (preferably cast iron)
– 1 Drill with a bit for drainage holes
– 1 Roll of landscaping fabric
– Potting soil (enough to fill your bathtub)
– Plants or seeds of your choice (about 5-10, depending on size)
This project can serve approximately 6–10 beautiful plants!
### How to Make Your Bathtub Planter?
1. **Choose the Right Spot:** Find a sunny location in your yard for your bathtub planter. Most plants thrive in plenty of sunshine, so choose wisely!
2. **Prep the Bathtub:** If your tub is rusty, you might want to sand it down or paint it with a rust-resistant outdoor paint. This step isn’t mandatory, but it can improve the appearance!
3. **Create Drainage Holes:** Use the drill to make several drainage holes in the bottom of the tub. Aim for about 6–8 holes; this will prevent the plants from sitting in water and getting root rot.
4. **Line the Bottom:** Cut a piece of landscaping fabric to fit the bottom of your bathtub. This will keep the soil from spilling out while allowing water to drain.
5. **Fill with Soil:** Scoop in your potting soil, filling the tub about three-quarters full. It’s okay to be generous – plants love deep, nutrient-rich soil!
6. **Plant Your Greenery:** Remove your plants from their pots and gently loosen any tightly bound roots. Space them out in your tub, then cover the roots with soil. Make sure each plant has room to grow.
7. **Water It Down:** Give your plants a good drink! After planting, water them deeply to help settle the soil around the roots.
8. **Maintain Your Planter:** Keep an eye on the moisture levels, especially in hot weather. Add mulch on top to help retain moisture and deter weeds.
### Tips for Your Garden Planter Adventure
– **Get Creative:** Consider painting the tub a fun color to make it an eye-catching feature in your yard! I once painted mine a bright sky blue, and it never fails to bring a smile!
– **Variety is the Spice of Life:** Mix and match different plants for a varied look. I love combining flowers with herbs—basil and marigold are a winning combo!
– **Seasonal Changes:** You can change your plants seasonally. In spring, go for cool-weather crops like lettuce and radishes, and by summer, switch to vibrant flowers or herbs.
Creating a unique garden planter from an old bathtub is a fun, rewarding project for any gardening enthusiast! I strongly encourage you to give it a try. I promise that it’ll not only beautify your garden but also become a conversation starter for anyone who stops by. Happy planting, and don’t forget to share your bathtub planter adventures with your friends!