Make an Upcycled Planter for Earth Month

Turn your trash into treasure with this easy craft for kids 

An image of Gloria Kenyon.
Gloria Kenyon
Public Programs Coordinator
April 28, 2021
Blue upcycled planter with a plant
Completed upcycled planter. All photos by Gloria Kenyon.

As we celebrate Earth Month, many of us are looking to be more environmentally conscious in our choices. Using just a few simple materials you likely have at home, including a milk jug destined for the recycling bin, let’s make a planter! Learn more about reusing household materials to make crafts on our Family Zone and register to join us for our Virtual May Day Family Celebration featuring Bash the Trash, a group that makes instruments from recycled materials! 

A grouping of supplies: milk jug, paint, and scissors
Save plastic destined for the landfill.

Recycled Material Planter  

Materials Needed: 

  • Plastic jug or container (washed) 
  • Sharp scissors 
  • Marker 
  • Ruler 
  • Waterproof paint or markers 
  • Brushes 
Milk jug cut and upside down
Jug is cut and drainage holes are added.

Instructions: 

  • With the help of an adult, draw a straight line with the marker and ruler around the bottom of the jug. You want to make a planter about 3.5 to 4 inches tall.  
  • Using the scissors, cut along the line to create the planter. Cut carefully so you don’t have jagged edges.  
  • Using the scissors, poke 2 to 4 holes in the bottom of the planter for drainage  
  • Paint the outside of the planter and let dry  
  • Add a plant 
Blue upcycled planter

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