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From toilets to boots: How people turn trash into creative plant homes

Your junk drawer could be a goldmine for greenery. See how discarded items get a second life as charming, eco-friendly planters.

The image shows a circular planter filled with plants sitting on top of a sidewalk surrounded by...
The image shows a circular planter filled with plants sitting on top of a sidewalk surrounded by grass, dried leaves, benches, tables, dustbins, poles, trees, buildings, and other objects.

From toilets to boots: How people turn trash into creative plant homes

People are discovering innovative ways to repurpose old household items as plant containers. A recent online discussion revealed how everyday objects—from coconut shells to toilets—can become unusual garden planters. The trend highlights a growing interest in repurposing instead of throwing things away.

The idea started when a Redditor shared their mom’s inventive planters. She turned coconut shells into hanging pots by drilling drainage holes in the bottom. Other items included a bathroom sink, a toilet tank, and even a painted polystyrene box.

The post quickly inspired others in the r/Anticonsumption community to share their own solutions. One person suggested using worn-out work boots for succulents. Another mentioned repurposing an old coffee mug by adding a small hole for drainage, making it perfect for herbs.

More examples followed. A neighbour transformed an old dry-vac into a large plant pot. Someone else used a stainless steel cat water fountain as a stylish bowl for succulents. Several people also described using old toilets—both the tank and the bowl—as quirky outdoor planters.

The discussion showed how common items can get a second life as plant containers. From kitchenware to bathroom fixtures, people are rethinking waste in practical ways. The trend reflects a broader shift toward reusing materials rather than discarding them.

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