Gardening has always been a delightful way to connect with nature, but not everyone has the luxury of a spacious backyard. That’s where creative gardening containers come in! Whether you live in a small apartment, have a cozy balcony, or just want to bring more greenery into your space in a stylish way, the right containers can completely transform your garden. From self-watering planters to quirky upcycled containers, there’s something for every gardening enthusiast. This list of 18 gardening container ideas will not only inspire you but also help you choose the perfect option for your space. Plus, we’ve included some top Amazon product recommendations to make your gardening journey easier. Let’s dive in!
1. Vertical Wall Planters – Elevate Your Greenery
source @hibiscus.blossoms
If you’re short on space but still want a lush, green environment, vertical wall planters are the perfect solution. These planters allow you to grow plants on your walls, fences, or even balcony railings, turning plain surfaces into a vibrant green masterpiece. You can grow flowers, herbs, or succulents in them, making them an excellent choice for both aesthetic and practical gardening. Look for modular wall planters on Amazon that let you customize your vertical garden to fit your space. Many options include self-watering systems, ensuring your plants stay hydrated with minimal effort.
2. Hanging Basket Planters – A Classic Touch of Elegance
source @hooksandlattice
Hanging basket planters add a touch of charm to patios, porches, and balconies. They are perfect for trailing plants like ivy, petunias, and ferns, which spill over the edges, creating a lush and beautiful display. These planters come in different materials, such as woven rattan, metal, or ceramic, allowing you to match them with your home’s décor. Choose a hanging planter with a coconut coir liner to maintain proper moisture balance for your plants.
3. Self-Watering Containers – The Low-Maintenance Choice
source @greenery.pk_
For those with a busy lifestyle, self-watering containers are a game-changer. These planters have a built-in reservoir that slowly releases water to the soil, ensuring your plants get the hydration they need without constant attention. They’re perfect for herbs, vegetables, and even indoor plants. Look for Amazon’s best-rated self-watering planters, which come in various sizes and styles, from modern square planters to elegant ceramic options.
4. Wooden Crates – A Rustic and Charming Look
source @fleamarketdecor
Repurposing wooden crates into gardening containers is a fantastic way to add a rustic touch to your garden. These containers are sturdy, provide excellent drainage, and can be painted or stained to match your garden’s aesthetic. They work beautifully for growing strawberries, herbs, and even small flowers. Line them with burlap or landscape fabric to prevent soil from spilling out, and place them on patios or balconies for an eco-friendly and stylish planter option.
5. Tiered Plant Stands – Add Dimension to Your Garden
source @gardendecoindia
If you have limited floor space but want to grow multiple plants, tiered plant stands are a must-have. These structures allow you to display several planters at different heights, making your garden look more organized and visually appealing. Tiered plant stands work well for flowers, herbs, or even small vegetables. Opt for a metal or wooden stand from Amazon that fits your space and style preferences.
6. Repurposed Tin Cans – A Budget-Friendly DIY Idea
source @sanobars_craft_and_cultivate
Upcycling tin cans into gardening containers is an affordable and creative way to grow plants. Instead of tossing out used soup or coffee cans, clean them out, drill a few drainage holes at the bottom, and transform them into charming mini planters. These are perfect for small herbs like basil, parsley, or chives, allowing you to create your own mini indoor herb garden right in your kitchen. You can also spray paint them in different colors or wrap them with decorative fabric to match your home décor. To add even more charm, consider hanging them on a wooden pallet or attaching them to a fence for a vertical garden effect. If you’re looking for an easy DIY gardening project that’s both functional and stylish, repurposed tin cans are a fantastic option.
7. Ceramic Pots – Timeless and Elegant
source @jamaligarden
For those who love classic and sophisticated garden décor, ceramic pots are a top choice. These planters come in various colors, sizes, and intricate designs, making them a perfect complement to patios, balconies, or indoor spaces. While ceramic pots can be heavier than plastic or resin alternatives, their durability and aesthetic appeal make them a worthwhile investment. Many glazed ceramic planters available on Amazon feature beautiful patterns that enhance your plants’ natural beauty while providing the necessary drainage. Whether you’re growing vibrant flowers, succulents, or leafy greens, ceramic pots elevate your garden with a touch of timeless elegance.
8. Window Box Planters – Perfect for Herbs and Flowers
source @contained_creations
Want to add a charming touch to your windows while growing fresh herbs or flowers? Window box planters are the way to go! These long, narrow containers fit perfectly on windowsills, railings, or even balcony edges, allowing you to maximize your gardening space. If you love cooking, planting herbs like thyme, oregano, and rosemary in a window box planter means you’ll always have fresh ingredients within arm’s reach. Additionally, vibrant flowers like geraniums, petunias, or begonias can add a pop of color to your home’s exterior. For added convenience, choose self-watering window boxes from Amazon to ensure your plants stay hydrated without frequent watering.
9. Concrete Planters – Modern and Durable
source @pot_inc
Concrete planters are ideal for those who prefer a minimalist and industrial aesthetic in their garden. These containers are highly durable and provide excellent insulation for plant roots, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. They are particularly great for succulents, cacti, and even small shrubs. However, due to their weight, they are best placed in permanent garden spots rather than frequently moved around. If you like the concrete look but need a more lightweight option, consider resin planters with a concrete finish, which provide the same stylish appeal with added portability.
10. Wooden Barrel Planters – A Vintage Statement Piece
source @thornburyantiquemarket
For a rustic and farmhouse-inspired garden, wooden barrel planters are an excellent choice. These large, durable containers work wonderfully for growing tomatoes, peppers, dwarf fruit trees, or even ornamental flowers. They add a charming countryside feel to any garden, patio, or porch. When choosing a wooden barrel planter, look for weather-resistant and treated wood to ensure longevity. Many high-quality options on Amazon come with built-in drainage holes, making them perfect for outdoor gardening.
11. Fabric Grow Bags – Lightweight and Portable
source @epicgardening
Fabric grow bags are gaining popularity due to their excellent aeration, drainage, and root health benefits. Unlike traditional pots, these breathable containers prevent overwatering by allowing excess moisture to escape, reducing the risk of root rot. They are particularly ideal for growing vegetables like potatoes, carrots, tomatoes, and peppers. Another advantage is their portability—since they are lightweight and foldable, they can be stored away when not in use. If you’re short on garden space, fabric grow bags offer a flexible and efficient gardening solution.
12. Repurposed Old Boots – A Quirky and Fun Idea
source @citybotanics
If you love upcycling and quirky garden décor, consider transforming old rain boots or work boots into unique planters! This creative idea adds a playful touch to any outdoor space and works especially well for small flowers or succulents. To create a boot planter, simply drill a few drainage holes in the sole, fill it with soil, and plant your favorite greenery. Arrange them on your front porch, along a garden pathway, or even hang them from a fence to make a statement.
13. Metal Trough Planters – Farmhouse-Inspired Beauty
source @hooksandlattice
Metal trough planters, commonly seen in farm-style gardens, are now trending in urban spaces. These spacious containers are great for growing multiple plants in one place, whether it’s a mix of vegetables, herbs, or decorative flowers. They are particularly useful for raised garden beds, as they keep soil contained and provide an organized gardening setup. When selecting a metal trough planter, choose a galvanized, rust-resistant option to ensure longevity.
14. Glass Terrariums – Miniature Greenhouses for Indoors
source @hpottermarketplace
For a sophisticated and modern gardening approach, glass terrariums are an excellent choice. These containers act as mini-greenhouses, creating the perfect environment for small plants like succulents, air plants, and moss. Available in hanging or tabletop designs, glass terrariums make stylish home décor pieces while providing an easy way to grow plants indoors. Many Amazon options come with geometric shapes or sleek metal frames, giving your garden an elegant touch.
15. Resin Planters – Lightweight and Weather-Resistant
source @eplantersdotcom
Resin planters are a practical alternative to ceramic or concrete because they are lightweight, durable, and weather-resistant. They come in a wide range of styles, colors, and sizes, allowing you to find the perfect match for your garden. Many resin planters mimic the look of stone or wood, giving you the aesthetic appeal of high-end materials without the added weight. Look for UV-resistant resin planters on Amazon to prevent fading and ensure long-term use.
16. Upcycled Bathtub – A Whimsical Gardening Trend
source @jolantheerb
If you love bold and creative garden designs, repurposing an old bathtub into a planter is a fantastic way to make a statement. A clawfoot tub filled with vibrant flowers or greenery can serve as a stunning centerpiece in your backyard. It’s also spacious enough to grow a mix of flowers, herbs, and even small vegetables. To ensure proper drainage, drill holes in the bottom or layer with rocks before adding soil.
17. Recycled Plastic Bottles – Sustainable and Creative
source @sanobars_craft_and_cultivate
For a budget-friendly and eco-conscious gardening approach, cut and repurpose plastic bottles into hanging or tabletop planters. This idea is particularly great for growing small herbs, succulents, or even strawberries. Simply cut the bottles in half, punch drainage holes, and fill them with soil. You can hang them with string to create a vertical garden or arrange them along a windowsill for a simple yet effective gardening solution.
18. Wooden Ladder Planters – Maximize Vertical Space
source @barishinsta
Turn an old wooden ladder into a vertical garden by placing small pots on each step. This space-saving idea is perfect for patios, balconies, or small yards where floor space is limited. You can also lean the ladder against a wall and secure hanging planters to its rungs for a unique and charming display. Whether you use it for flowers, herbs, or succulents, ladder planters add an artistic touch to your gardening space.
