Jackson Free Press

It's easy to feel the start of the season when you have a colorful outdoor space for entertaining and relaxing. Those lovely, colorful planters at the garden store can be expensive, though! So on a limited budget, I've learned that a can of paint and a few other simple supplies can go a long way to transform cheap everyday items into brilliant decor for your yard.

Painted Planters

Spray paint a dollar-store bucket to make a colorful planter. Use two colors to create an ombre effect, or tape off a custom design. Make sure the first layer is completely dry before applying paint, at least four to eight hours. Cut or drill a few small holes in the bottom for drainage.

Colorful Concrete

Paint cinder blocks with exterior latex paint and use them as planters. This could be a great idea for edging your garden.

Radiant Rubber

Paint an old tire and line the inside with a heavy-duty garbage bag or tarp to create a bright shabby-chic planter. You can add empty water bottles to the hollow sides to save on soil.