How to Turn Storage Baskets Into Cute DIY Basket Planters

Kristina.roy
by Kristina.roy

Looking for a fun basket planter DIY? I got you covered. I recently stumbled upon some spacious outdoor storage baskets and had a brilliant idea – turning them into charming porch planters! With a few simple steps, you can create your own unique planters that will add a touch of greenery to your porch or outdoor space.


In this step-by-step tutorial, I'll walk you through the process of transforming a basket into a planter using readily available supplies. Let's get started!

Tools and materials:

  • Large outdoor storage basket
  • Trash bags (preferably heavy-duty)
  • Empty plastic flower pots or plastic cups (alternatively)
  • Potting soil
  • Your choice of flowers or plants
  • Gardening gloves (optional)
  • Watering can or hose
  • Scissors

Step 1: Prepare the Basket

Begin by selecting a large outdoor storage basket that suits your porch or outdoor aesthetic. Make sure it's clean and free from any debris. If it's not clean, give it a quick wipe-down.

Lining the basket with trash bags

Step 2: Line the Basket with Trash Bags

Line the inside of the basket with a trash bag and poke a few holes to ensure proper drainage. Trim any excess material so that it doesn't hang over the edges

Creating elevation

Step 3: Create Elevation with Empty Flower Pots or Plastic Cups

If you have empty plastic flower pots, place them at the bottom of the lined basket. These pots will raise the flower bed, reduce the amount of potting soil needed, and improve drainage. Alternatively, you can use plastic cups if you don't have empty flower pots. Arrange them evenly to create an even surface.

Lining the basket

Step 4: Line the Basket Again

Now, place another trash bag inside the basket, covering the pots or cups you've just added. Again, add a few holes to ensure drainage.

Adding potting soil

Step 5: Add Potting Soil

Fill the lined basket with potting soil, leaving about 2-3 inches of space from the top. You can wear gardening gloves if you prefer to keep your hands clean. Level the soil and gently pat it down to ensure it's stable.

Arranging the flowers

Step 6: Arrange Your Flowers or Plants

Carefully select your favorite flowers or plants and arrange them in the basket according to your preferences. Be creative with your design! Space them out evenly, and ensure they have enough room to grow.

Concealing the trash bags

Step 7: Conceal the Trash Bags

Once your plants are arranged, tuck the excess trash bag around the edges of the basket to hide it from view.

Filling the basket with soil

Step 8: Fill Up with Soil

Top up the basket with potting soil until it reaches the top, covering the trash bags completely. This will give your planter a finished and polished look.

Step 9: Water Your Plants

Give your newly transformed planter a good watering. Be sure to moisten the soil thoroughly, allowing the water to reach the roots of your plants. Use a watering can or hose for this step.

DIY basket planters

DIY basket planters

There you have it – a fantastic porch planter made from an outdoor storage basket! This DIY project adds a touch of nature to your outdoor space!


Feel free to customize your planter with different plants and baskets to match your style. Enjoy the beauty of your porch garden, and watch as it flourishes throughout the seasons. Happy gardening!


This is my second year doing this and have beautiful blooms all season long!


Follow @kristina.roy on Instagram for more DIY ideas.

Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
  2 questions
  • Vicki Vicki on Sep 10, 2023
    Did you make drain holes in the plastic?
  • Gig69451122 Gig69451122 on Sep 10, 2023
    I'm lost 🙄 You specified making sure to add drainage holes when adding the second bag? Doesn't watering damage the bottom of the basket ultimately?
Comments
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3 of 29 comments
  • Tom83682880 Tom83682880 on Sep 10, 2023
    I wouldnt use this method plastic bags promote mold.Simply place a clear plastic drip tree in the bottom of basketAdd your plastic or what ever you are using to elevate the plant place your potted plant on top. This way you can easily repot your plant when needed.and easily remove to regulate drainage
    • Kristina.roy Kristina.roy on Sep 11, 2023
      No mold! These were outdoor baskets and I poked holes in the bag so the water didn’t just sit! It drained out from the outdoor basket.
  • Pat Pat on Sep 10, 2023
    Yes, I am in New England!
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