DIY Upcycled Flower Pots

It’s time to talk trash—a lot of trash!

That’s right. Each year we Americans generate approximately 4.3 pounds of trash per person per day, and approximately 55 percent of the 220 million tons to 250 million tons or so of trash generated each year in our great nation ends up in one of the 3,500+ landfills.

To put it in perspective, that amount of trash generated annually is enough to fill Busch Stadium from top to bottom twice a day for an entire year.

But do we have to throw everything out? No. We don’t. For many items, we can recycle, but enough of us aren’t taking advantage of recycling options.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that 75 percent of the American trash trail is recyclable. However, we recycle only approximately 30 percent of it, so there’s definitely room for improvement.

It’s easy to start, too. Just begin with what you have. For instance, take bottles, jars and other containers. We Americans throw away approximately 28 billion bottles and jars (and other containers) each year.

Just set those bottles, jars or other containers aside, and once you’ve accumulated enough, send them in for recycling. By simply choosing to do that, you’ve made a difference.

You can even get creative with these containers and “upcycle” them—using them as flower pot planters to beautify your home or office. It’s so easy to do—and decorative, too!

Here’s an example:

First, take your empty containers (such as Garden of Life® protein containers or other containers), and remove the existing label.

Then, remove the lid (and top “lip” area of the container).

Next, measure the circumference and height of the container, and then use those measurements to cut some ornamental fabric to cover the container.

You'll then need to take glue and glue on the fabric, followed by accessorizing the container as you wish.

And, finally, fill the container with potting soil and then add a plant or flowers of your choice!

And . . . Voilà! You now have beautifully DIY upcycled flower pots.

Enjoy!