5 Unusual Items People Have Grown Plants In
Getting wigged out by how expensive plant pots are these days? Me too. Ever feel like you don’t have the resources to grow the plants you want? Been there. Luckily, you don’t need fancy planters to create a beautiful and personalized garden. In fact, the resources you need might already be hiding in your own closet. What if I told you your next plant Pinterest board can be built by going to a scrap yard? Check out these 5 unusual items people have used to grow plants!
Using A Tree Stump
*Photo by y.t. lou on flickr
One of the most unique places I've successfully grown a plant was inside the hollow of an old tree stump. A client had a massive, weathered stump in their yard that they were considering removing, but I saw an opportunity to turn it into something beautiful. With over 15 years of experience in horticulture and landscaping, I knew that the decomposing wood could provide rich organic matter, creating a natural planter. After assessing the stump's condition, I drilled small drainage holes and filled it with a well-balanced potting mix, selecting ferns and native ground covers that thrive in shaded, moisture-retentive environments. The result was stunning, a lush, living centerpiece that blended seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
This project was a success because of my deep understanding of soil composition, plant compatibility, and microclimates. Many wouldn't think of using a decaying stump as a planter, but my expertise allowed me to turn it into a thriving feature rather than an eyesore. The client was thrilled, and over time, the plants flourished, attracting birds and beneficial insects. This experience reinforced my belief that with the right knowledge, creativity, and care, plants can grow in even the most unexpected places.
Using an Old TV
*Picture from Tarrah Schiller
Personally, I am an antique collector so when I came across an article online that suggested turning an old TV set into a greenhouse, I knew I had to try it. After multiple attempts at finding a TV set from 1960s, I finally found one that I liked while thrifting. It was also already emptied inside, which made the job so much easier. I painted my TV and added a few strips of grow lights into the interior of the TV cabinet and used 2 aluminum trays as a planter. After this, I added cactus soil and planted my cacti plants into the tray. Over a year later, my plants are doing very well, and the setup still looks amazing.
Angelika Zaber, Gardening Expert & Lawn Care Specialist, Online Turf
On Vertical Walls
At AJM Grounds, we’ve accepted some truly unique approaches to growing plants by incorporating them into our hardscaping designs. One memorable project in Woburn involved transforming an unused, compact urban patio into a vibrant garden by implementing a vertical wall of native plants. This not only maximized a small space but also improved air quality and aesthetics dramatically—leading to a 20% increase in users frequenting the space.
The inspiration came from our commitment to sustainability and creating functional outdoor spaces. By using modular planter systems, we allowed clients to customize plant arrangements seasonally without compromising on space. This adaptive approach has not only resonated with our eco-conscious clients but also with those looking to blend functionality with beauty, showing that with a bit of creativity, plants can thrive in the most unexpected places.
John Caplis, Business Owner, AJM Grounds
On A Rooftop
One of the most unique places I've successfully grown a tree was on a rooftop terrace in downtown Dallas. A client wanted a small urban oasis but had limited space, so we carefully selected a drought-tolerant Texas redbud that could thrive in a large custom-built planter. Given my more than 20 years in the tree industry and my certification as an arborist, I knew the biggest challenges would be soil quality, root space, and making sure there was proper drainage to prevent water buildup on the roof. We created a specialized lightweight soil mix, installed a deep-watering irrigation system, and strategically placed the tree to receive just the right balance of sunlight and shade from surrounding buildings.
A few years later, that redbud is still thriving, providing beautiful seasonal blooms and a much-needed natural touch to the urban environment. This project was a great example of how experience and knowledge make all the difference when growing plants in unexpected places. Without understanding root structure, soil composition, and climate conditions, the tree could have easily struggled or failed. My passion for tree care, which started when I was 10 working alongside my father, has given me a deep appreciation for how trees adapt to their environments. Whether it's a backyard or a rooftop, the key is always finding the right plant for the right place and giving it the care it needs to flourish.
Amaury Ponce, Business Owner, Ponce Tree Services
In Old Boots
One of the most unique places I've successfully grown a plant was in an old pair of boots! I got the idea from Pinterest where they transformed an old pair of work boots into creative planters. Inspired by that, I decided to upcycle my worn-out hiking boots, filling them with soil and planting small succulents. It was a fun and sustainable way to repurpose something old into a tiny garden.
Brad Saunders, Brand Vice President, Heroes Lawn Care
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