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I’m a big fan of using what I’ve already got — especially in the garden. And when my old metal colander got too rusty and wobbly for kitchen duty, I didn’t toss it. I gave it a second life outside.
Turns out, colanders make perfect hanging planters. They’ve already got built-in drainage holes (thank you pasta water), and they look pretty charming hanging on a porch or in the garden.
If you’ve got an old colander taking up space, here’s how to turn it into something useful — and pretty.
Why Colanders Make Great Planters
You don’t have to be a DIY expert for this one. Colanders are ready to go. They’re lightweight, they drain well, and they’re easy to hang with just a little chain or sturdy rope.
Plus, I love that slightly worn, rustic look they give off. It’s backyard style without trying too hard.
How I Turned Mine Into A Hanging Planter
Here’s what I did:
- Line It: Since colanders have big holes, I line mine with some moss or coco liner (you can use an old T-shirt or burlap in a pinch). This helps hold in the soil but still lets water drain.
- Fill It: I add good-quality potting soil and pick plants that love hanging — think trailing flowers like petunias, strawberries, herbs, or even succulents.
- Hang It Up: I loop some chain, rope, or sturdy twine through the handles. Then I hang it from a hook on my porch or a tree branch. Easy.
A Cheap, Charming Garden Hack
Now that little rusty colander is one of my favorite planters. It cost me nothing. It saves space. And I didn’t have to buy some overpriced hanging pot from the store.
Sometimes the best garden ideas are sitting right in your kitchen cabinet — just waiting for a second chance.
So before you toss out that old colander, give it a new job. Your plants (and your wallet) will thank you.
