Looking for ways to reuse, recycling and repurpose things in 2021? Well, the garden is the perfect place to do this!
We’ve all seen garden ideas like plant pot old metal buckets, watering cans and teacup planters for alternative and reusable solutions in eco gardens – but if you’re looking for a bigger planter solution, an old tyre is the perfect DIY option.
Read on to find out how you can upcycle an old tyre and create a garden planter for a unique design idea to make the most of your outdoor space.
How do you make a tyre plant pot?
Making a tyre flower pot or planter couldn’t be easier. All you need in order to create a basic tyre planter is an old tyre!
The number of tyres you need will depend on the depth you want your tyre planter to be, and the width of the desired tyre planter you will determine the radius of the tyre you will need. For example, a tractor tyre would be suitable for a large plant.
Once you have your tyre(s) of choice, prepping for planting can be done in just a few simple steps.
What is the easiest way to make a tyre planter?
The easiest way to make a tyre planter is to simply place a tyre in your garden, fill it with soil and add plants. However, don’t let this impede your creativity! Painted tyres can add vibrancy to your garden and this DIY method of landscaping can add aesthetic at a low cost.
Step 1: Clean the tyre
Giving your tyre a good clean (mainly on the outside that will be exposed) will help with the overall appearance. If you plan to paint your tyre, this step is particularly important as any dirt remaining on the tyre will impact the finish once painted.
If, however, you plan to sit your tyre into the ground, so it is level with the surface, then you can skip this step completely.
Step 2: Paint your tyre
If you want to give your garden an additional pop of colour, painting your tyre plant pot can be really effective.
Once clean and dry, you can apply the paint. Given that your tyre planter will be exposed to the elements, we suggest using commercial grade paint, especially on black rubber car tyres. However, any durable, non-toxic option should do the job. Allow the tyre to dry fully before continuing to the next step.
Step 3: Put your tyre planter in place
Once filled with soil, remember that your tyre planter will be very heavy. Therefore, it is advisable to move the tyre to the desired location in your garden before continuing. If you are making a stacked tyre planter, move the tyres first before filling with earth.
Step 4: Line the tyre
Lining your tyre planter will prevent the tyre from becoming too wet and eventually perishing – especially if they are old tyres in the first place. This step isn’t essential, but protecting the tyre with tarp or hessian will prolong the life of the planter.
Step 5: Adding your soil
When prepping your tyre plant pot, you should follow the same steps as you would when planting in a regular pot. Add stones to the bottom to allow draining and then follow with the correct soil type for your chosen plants.
What can you plant in a tyre?
With tyre planters, the possibilities are almost endless! Using tyres gives you have the option to create greater depth and room in your own garden. A stacked tyre planter in varying sizes is a great way to improve garden decor through one of the easiest and most satisfying DIY projects.
Tyre planters are suitable for all kinds of plants – from flowering plants to succulents and can even be used to start your own vegetable garden! Here are just some of the options:
Plants
- Succulents
- Bulbs, like daffodils and tulips
- Lavender
Herbs
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Chives
- Basil
Vegetables
- Potatoes
- Onions
- Carrots
- Broad beans
- Peas
Get more garden inspiration
For more gardening tips, tricks and inspiration, explore the Lawnmowers Direct blog. Here, you’ll find garden care tips, tool guides and inspiration for your garden.