Gardeners urged not to throw away common household item as it has ‘lovely’ use outside

The items would normally be tossed in the recycling bin but have a clever use in the garden.

Gardeners have been urged to make the addition to their own garden(Image: Getty Images/Image Source)

A garden expert has urged households not to throw away one common item as it can have a “lovely” use outside. Many homes across the UK are stepping back into their outside spaces and sprucing them up ahead of summer.

Spring is an ideal time to get to work outside and get planting new flowers, herbs and vegetables. Gardener Simon Akeroy, who shares tips and tricks on social media, has urged households not to toss out tin cans when emptied as they can come in handy.

Most households reach for the recycling bin once the likes of beans, soups and lentils have been used up. However, Simon suggests holding onto the tin cans and turning them into planters instead.

He said: “Instead of throwing your tins in the recycling bin, try repurposing a few. Make them into rustic herb planters.”

All Simon did was take the packaging off the tin cans and wash them out of any food. He explained: “Start by washing the tins thoroughly and removing any labels to ensure a clean look.

Content cannot be displayed without consent

“This step is important as leftover residue can interfere with planting.” When clean, you need to make holes in the bottom of the tin, which Simon did with a drill.

The gardener said: “Once your tins are clean, you’ll need to make a few drainage holes in the bottom—this is crucial for healthy root growth.

“Additionally, it can be helpful to create a small hole on the side towards the back if you plan to hang your planter.”

Simon made a hole in the side of his tin so he could hang it up. He repurposed an old wire coat hanger to make a handle that he fed through the hole.

“Bend the hanger to form hooks that can fit into the side hole you made,” Simon explained. “This allows the tin to hang securely from a nail or trellis, adding a rustic charm to your garden or patio.”

Simon opted to plant mint, parsley and thyme in his tins. He said they are “great choices” and added: “They thrive in containers and will create a lovely, fragrant display.”

The garden expert urged: “Fill your tins with peat-free compost to promote healthy growth without harmful chemicals.

“With your herbs planted and tins hung, you can enjoy the beauty of your rustic herb display. This DIY project not only adds greenery to your home but also encourages eco-friendly gardening practices.”

Simon’s followers praised his hack as one said: “Great idea.” Another added: “Brilliant Simon.” Someone else commented: “They look cute.”