Reuse and Repurpose in the Garden
Save money, save your landfill, and teach conservation by reusing materials in your garden. Next time you're off to buy something at the garden center first look around to see what else you have that might do the trick. You could even look at eComposite Products like garden fences, which are a stark visual example of what recycled items can turn into, and why it's so important that we do recycle. Recycle and reuse! It's such an important lesson. Most items can be recycled, and with a bit of art and crafts, you can make a whole new decoration or a practical item like plant pots, a bird feeder, or a scarecrow. Understandably, other items you just can't get like this but are irresistible all the same. And it is fine if you do splash out on some garden aesthetics. For instance, some people like to Buy neon lights for their garden for show - it is a social place, and a place you can really make your own so this is important. However, for as much as you can, make it! Don't throw away that old water bottle, cut a hole in it, fill it with seeds and hang it up for the birds. You can really get creative. Just don't feel too guilty if you want one or two of those snazzy decorations from that website you can't resist!
So, having said all that, feel free to check out these resources for even more creative ideas.
This bike fork tool holder is part of Life Lab's Creative Creations photo album which shows off reuse in the garden as well as other whimsical garden features.
The Common Ground Garden Program also has a PDF slide show of creative ways to reuse in the garden. Recycling Household Throwaways Into New Garden Tools
See more garden tips on the LA Master Gardener page.
If you really want to get serious and see some "repurposing with style" check out this new book. The Revolutionary Yardscape: Ideas for Repurposing Local Materials to Create Containers, Pathways, Lighting, and More By Matthew Levesque. I viewed an advance copy of this publication. The creativity and design were way beyond the scope of a school garden, but if you appreciate unique garden design you'll like this book.
