Make an Upcycled Planter for Earth Month

Turn your trash into treasure with this easy craft for kids

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

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