Ever look at that old, rusting grill in the backyard and think, “What am I supposed to do with you now?” Well, I’ve got a sizzling idea that’s hotter than your last BBQ! Let’s turn that abandoned grill into a stunning, vibrant planter. Yep, you heard it right – from grilled to thrilled!
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Really? My grill?!” But trust me, it’s a piece of cake (or should I say a juicy steak?). Here’s a quick and fun guide to get you started.
Materials You’ll Need
- An old grill
- Potting soil
- A variety of flowers or plants
- Gravel or small stones
- Drill with a metal bit (optional, for drainage holes)
- Gardening gloves
- Watering can or hose
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Clean the Grill:
First, give that grill a good scrub. Remove old charcoal, grease, and any lingering debris. If the grill has a lid, you can either remove it or keep it propped open as part of your new planter’s design.
2. Ensure Drainage:
Drainage is key! If your grill doesn’t have drainage holes, grab a drill and make a few holes in the bottom. No drill? No problem! Just add a thick layer of gravel or small stones at the bottom to help with drainage.
3. Add Gravel or Stones:
Place a layer of gravel or small stones at the bottom of the grill. This helps improve drainage and keeps the soil from becoming soggy.
4. Fill with Potting Soil:
Fill the grill with well drained potting soil, leaving a few inches of space at the top. Make sure the soil is evenly spread out.
5. Plant Your Flowers:
Now for the fun part! Arrange your flowers and plants in the soil. Mix and match colors and types for a vibrant display. Press the soil gently around the plants to secure them.
6. Water Thoroughly:
Give your new plants a good drink of water. Ensure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. This helps the plants settle into their new home.
7. Position Your Planter:
Find the perfect spot in your garden or patio for your grill planter. Ensure it gets the right amount of sunlight for the plants you’ve chosen.
8. Maintenance:
Maintenance is pretty basic. Use the finger test to check if the soil is dry. If it is, water abundantly. If not, wait and test again a day or so later. Depending on the conditions, you may need to water more than once a week. Plants in container gardens lose some of their fertilizer every time it rains or you water. So, about every two weeks, water with the liquid or soluble fertilizer of your choice, following the dose on the label. Plants really don’t care which fertilizer you use as long as they get the necessary minerals. Feel free to pinch, prune, stake, and harvest as you see fit. Don’t be shy! It’s your garden. If a plant needs a trim or a little support, go ahead. It’s like giving your plants a makeover.
As the season wraps up:
- Cold climates: Compost frost-bitten annuals and replant next season. Perennials might need replacing in spring.
- Mild climates: Keep growing year-round, swapping out spent annuals.
Tips for Success:
- Choose Hardy Plants: Opt for plants that are well-suited to your climate and require minimal maintenance.
- Seasonal Changes: Update your planter with seasonal flowers to keep it looking lively all year round.
- Creative Touches: Add decorative elements like garden gnomes, fairy lights, or small ornaments to personalize your grill planter further.
