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DCL
There's a wide range of possibilities for cool, non-traditional containers that will work for a container for plants. The trick is where to find them. Here are five of your best green resources.
The Closets and Garages of Friends and Family
Ahhh...the true test of finding out how much someone loves you is if they'll let you rummage through their closets and garages for potential pots for your container garden. If you're short on containers, head to the next best free-source. Ask folks you know if you can come over for a visit and dig through their stored items for creative pots for your garden. Most likely, they'll be glad to unload a few unused items.
Freecycle
Freecycle can be your best friend when it comes to finding containers. Join a group and keep your eyes peeled for potential objects, from buckets to baskets to used patio pots. In no time you'll be able to score all the pots you need for a bountiful garden. Read up on how to get started in a freecycle network.
Swapmeet
Heading down the the local swapmeet is a great way to find treasures for your container garden. You never know what kinds of cool kettles, barrels, baskets, or ceramics you might find that will add character and interest to your herbs and veggies as they grow. Plus, swapmeets are the perfect place to negotiate a good deal, or barter.
Garage Sales
Going around town to garage sales on the weekend can be a whole lot of fun and a great way to score cheap containers. Not only that, but if you keep your eyes peeled, you might find that the houses you stop at to get containers might also provide you with great ideas for what to grow in your garden. If you're lucky, you might even come home with seeds or starts from sales you visit, along with your new-to-you containers.
Thrift Store Finally, thrift stores are a great destination if you're looking for inexpensive containers. It's satisfying to find a used accessory to add new life to, and you never know what you'll find in a thrift store. Look for inspiration in both the housewares as well as clothing departments—a pair of old rubber boots could make for an interesting planter...
