Pots and pans...

There is a lot of argument over flower pots. Some say terracotta is the only way to go and some swear by plastic and resins. I say be more creative than that. I have a project for you. you'll need tool dip and plaster. Stuff a pair of old sneakers or shoes (with a hole in them or drill your own hole) with newspaper. Pack the newspaper tight so it keeps the shoes open wide. Paint the outside with plaster and let dry. Once it's dry take out the paper and pour some tool dip on the inside. Make sure you roll it around til it coats the inside well. Let it dry then paint the outside with latex paint. any kind of crazy design you like or one bright color. Now throw in a few rocks for drainage, making sure the hole does not get clogged. Put your dirt in and plant it with some mint, basil, candytuff or any small spilling out type of plant or flower. This is fun and you can show the kids as grow in the spring or do a "family of shoes" and line a walkway. It's one of those everyone can help projects. little kids can stuff the shoes and paint. Older kids can help with the plaster and tool dip. Do this project outside on a spill zone where messes are allowed. Plaster cracks so put them away in the basement in winter. As for whats the best pot to plant in? I like terracotta for smaller plants but the larger the pot need the lighter I go. Resin is strong and light. Just think that you usually have to move a plant a couple times and with dirt, water and plants it can get HEAVY! I like creative planters too tin cans old interesting jars. Be creative and have some fun! Next blog selecting plants for a balcony garden...