No garden? No problem. You can grow beautiful, healthy plants even in the tiniest spaces — without spending money on pots. All it takes is a bit of creativity and a look around your kitchen, recycling bin, or storage closet.
In this article, you’ll learn how to grow plants in small containers, using everyday items to replace store-bought pots. Ideal for balconies, windowsills, apartments, and budget-conscious plant lovers.
Why Grow in Small Containers?
- Perfect for tight spaces
- Portable — move plants as needed for light or weather
- Less water and soil required
- Great for herbs, flowers, succulents, and microgreens
- Customizable — reuse and decorate containers your way
Now let’s explore how to grow without traditional pots.
1. Use Recycled Food Containers
Many food packages are the perfect size for plants.
Ideas:
- Yogurt cups
- Ice cream tubs
- Butter containers
- Coffee cans
- Plastic salad boxes
What to Do:
- Wash thoroughly
- Poke drainage holes in the bottom (use a heated needle or knife)
- Add a thin layer of gravel or pebbles if needed
- Decorate with paint, twine, fabric, or stickers
2. Try Tin Cans and Jars
Metal cans are sturdy and ideal for both indoors and outdoors.
How to Use:
- Rinse well and remove labels
- Hammer 2–3 holes in the bottom for drainage
- Sand rough edges or cover them with tape
Glass jars are great for water propagation or hydroponic herbs (but not for soil, unless they have a drainage layer).
3. Use Egg Cartons for Starting Seeds
Cardboard or paper egg cartons are biodegradable and space-saving.
Steps:
- Fill each section with soil
- Plant 1–2 seeds per cell
- Mist lightly and keep moist
- Place on a tray for stability
- Cut and plant directly into larger containers when ready
Perfect for lettuce, herbs, or small flowers.
4. Transform Milk or Juice Cartons
Cartons are waterproof and sturdy — ideal for medium plants.
How to Repurpose:
- Cut off the top or side
- Poke drainage holes in the bottom
- Decorate with paper, fabric, or washi tape
Use as rectangular planters for window sills or stacked vertical setups.
5. Use Plastic Bottles (Vertically or Horizontally)
Bottles work well for hanging gardens, herbs, and trailing plants.
Two Options:
- Cut horizontally for a trough-style container
- Cut vertically to use the bottom as a deep pot
Hang with string or place on racks, and don’t forget to poke holes in the bottom!
6. Grow in Bowls, Cups, and Mugs
Have chipped or mismatched kitchenware? They make great planters.
Use For:
- Succulents
- Cacti
- Baby herbs
Add pebbles at the bottom to prevent water buildup if there are no drainage holes.
7. Upcycle Old Drawers or Wooden Boxes
These can serve as mini garden beds for balconies or patios.
Tips:
- Line with plastic or landscape fabric
- Add drainage holes or place containers inside
- Group small pots inside for organization and style
Looks rustic and stylish with minimal effort.
8. Fabric or Tote Bags as Grow Bags
If you have old canvas bags, jeans, or cloth totes, turn them into DIY grow bags.
How:
- Line with a plastic bag (poke holes in plastic)
- Fill with soil and plant herbs, greens, or flowers
- Place on a tray or crate
They’re breathable and ideal for root development.
9. Use Baskets or Crates with Liners
Woven baskets add charm to any plant setup.
How to Prepare:
- Line with plastic or old shopping bags
- Add a drainage layer (stones or mesh)
- Place a smaller container inside if needed
Great for grouping small plants or creating a centerpiece.
10. Layered Trays for Microgreens or Herbs
Don’t throw out those bakery or fruit trays!
How to Use:
- Fill with shallow soil
- Sprinkle herb or microgreen seeds
- Mist regularly and place in light
Harvest in 7–14 days and regrow as needed.
Bonus Tip: Label and Track Your DIY Pots
Use popsicle sticks, tape, or cut-up containers to create labels. Track:
- Plant name
- Date planted
- Watering needs
This helps you stay organized and learn what works best.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need store-bought pots to grow a thriving indoor or balcony garden. With a little resourcefulness and care, you can grow plants anywhere, using anything — from bottles to baskets to mugs.
Plants don’t care if their home is fancy — they care about light, water, and love. And all of those are free.