Save Money with Salvaged Landscaping Materials: Creative Ideas from Sue Whitney

DIY projects like starting plants from seeds or laying brick patios save money, but hardscape materials can be pricey. Salvaged landscaping materials—aka "junk"—dress up a yard and lighten the budget. Sue Whitney, owner of Junkmarket and editor of Decorating Junkmarket Style, shares her expertise.

BHG: Besides saving money, what do you love about using salvaged materials?
SW: You get your own style—mass-produced items look like everyone else's. There's a recycling aspect: beautifully weathered pieces keep improving with age.

BHG: Many assume salvaged materials mean flea-market style—but that's not true, right?
SW: Salvage isn't only from flea markets, and it suits contemporary/modern landscapes too. Don't overdo it. Pick focal points first, then add accessories that work with your plantings.

BHG: Containers are a popular use for salvaged materials. What nontraditional containers save money?
SW: Architectural salvage stores and used restaurant supplies are great. Big pastry mixing bowls on casters make fabulous outdoor containers—drill drainage holes and you're done. Repurpose with purpose: functional and flexible.

Businesses closing down offer treasures: old movie reels with nice patina. Cut in half for containers, drill holes to hang, or line up under a window for a window box.

BHG: You keep things flexible. Example?
SW: A mixing bowl on casters can become an ice bucket for a party, or a side table with glass on top. The point: don't let junk end up in your own garage sale.

BHG: Movie reels for window boxes—other ideas?
SW: Junk is indigenous. In Minnesota, farm junk abounds. Calf pails with handles make great window boxes—build a wooden bracket and hang them. Metal baskets, square milk crates cut in half (lined with moss) add texture. Mix and match if you can't find identical pieces—junk just has to play well together.

BHG: Seating with salvaged materials?
SW: Theater seating repainted with outdoor fabric cushions makes fun seating. Benches elevate containers. Turn buckets upside down, screw reclaimed wood on top for a bench.

BHG: Small accents?
SW: Hose guards from old spools topped with doorknobs. Shovel/rake heads as edging—tuck them in so they become part of the garden.

BHG: Integrating into larger hardscape?
SW: Old doors, elevator gates—plant flowers up them. Build pergolas from old windows. A galvanized barrel filled with sand holds a sun umbrella securely. Don't be afraid of tools!

Combine new with old. Only buy what you truly love—if you love it, you'll use it. If on the fence, don't buy.

Save even more by building your own raised bed.
Get more garden decorating ideas!