Do it
TIME AT HOME
Upcycle rain guttering into
A HERB PLANTER
Create a fragrant and practical garden with quirky material for a plant trough
Simple and effective, your plants will thrive in their new home
Perfect for a small garden space
S
pace for planting can be limited in small gardens, but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on greenery. Vertical planters are an ideal way to add scent and colour without taking up floor space. For a thrifty alternative to shop-bought containers, try upcycling lengths of plastic guttering to make a scented herb garden – perfect for adding to your favourite recipes. YOU WILL NEED Rain guttering Hacksaw Combi drill Gorilla Glue Spirit level Clamps or duct tape Potting soil Variety of herbs Trowel
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‘REMEMBER TO USE A SPIRIT LEVEL TO ENSURE YOUR PLANTERS ARE PUT UP STRAIGHT SO THE WATER DOESN’T GATHER IN ONE END’
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104 | APRIL 2020
3 of the best
COMBI DRILLS ‘Place your planters close to the back door and fill with the herbs or salad leaves you use most often so they’re easy to reach.’ executive editor
Heather Young
LONG LIFE
Erbauer cordless 18V combi drill, £100, B&Q
HANDY KIT
Mac Allister 18V cordless combi drill, £49.99, Screwfix
BIG TORQUE
Black & Decker cordless 18V combi drill, £50, Argos
FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPHS GROWINGSPACES.NET
CLEAN THE SURFACE Thoroughly clean the area of fence or bench you’ll be attaching your planter to and remove any dirt or stains. If using Gorilla Glue, there’s no need to let the surface dry as it cures with moisture. MEASURE AND CUT GUTTERING Cut a piece of black squareline guttering (available from DIY stores) into 30cm lengths using a small hacksaw. Drill a few drainage holes in the bottom. GLUE YOUR PLANTERS If dry, lightly dampen the fence or bench (the glue is activated by moisture), then spread a thin layer of glue on the back of the planter. Press into place, making sure it’s level. ALLOW TO CURE Use a clamp or duct tape to hold the planter in place for 1-2 hours while the glue cures (the glue will expand). Once dry, remove the clamps/tape. Glue stop-ends to each end of the gutter. Leave to cure. PLANT YOUR HERB GARDEN Fill the planters with potting soil, then add your chosen plants. Try a selection of fresh herbs, salad leaves or lavender. Leave plenty of room between each one for them to grow and flourish.
