Gardening tips: Got a green thumb? Try tyre gardens, where creativity meets sustainability

Tyre gardening tips: Choose plants that are suitable for the size of your tire planters. For smaller tyres, herbs, succulents, or flowers work well. Larger tyres can house vegetables, fruit plants, or ornamental shrubs (Image: Canva)

DIY tyre gardening is a creative and practical way to utilise old tyres in your garden. It’s an eco-friendly approach that transforms discarded tyres into functional planters and garden features. Here’s a guide to get you started:

Choosing the right tyres

Select tyres that are clean and free from oil or other contaminants. Smaller tyres, like those from bicycles or motorcycles, are ideal for small plants, while larger tyres, like those from cars or trucks, can accommodate bigger plants or even small trees.

Preparing the tyres

Before using them, clean the tyres thoroughly. Remove any residual dirt or debris, and if necessary, wash them with soap and water. Allow them to dry completely before proceeding. For better drainage and to reduce the risk of contaminants leaching into the soil, consider drilling several small holes in the bottom of the tyres.

Designing your planters

Decide how you want to use the tyres. You can stack them for a vertical garden, cut them to create unique planter shapes, or paint them to match your garden’s aesthetic. To create a simple planter, cut the sidewalls off a tire and leave the base as the container.

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Preparing the planting medium

Fill the tyres with a suitable planting mix. A combination of compost, potting soil, and a bit of sand or perlite for drainage works well. For larger tyres, you might want to include some lightweight materials like shredded paper or cardboard at the bottom to reduce soil volume and enhance drainage.

Planting

Choose plants that are suitable for the size of your tire planters. For smaller tyres, herbs, succulents, or flowers work well. Larger tyres can house vegetables, fruit plants, or ornamental shrubs. Arrange your plants according to their light and water needs, and make sure they have enough space to grow.

Maintaining your tyre garden

Regularly check the soil moisture and adjust watering as needed. Tyres can absorb and retain heat, so ensure your plants get adequate water, especially in hot weather. Also, monitor for pests and diseases, and take action as necessary to keep your garden healthy.

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Adding finishing touches

Enhance the aesthetic appeal of your tire garden by painting the tyres with vibrant colors or patterns. You can also use outdoor-friendly paint to create designs that complement your garden’s theme. Consider adding decorative elements like gravel, mulch, or small garden ornaments around the tyres for a polished look.

Creative uses for tyres

Beyond planters, old tyres can be used to create garden features like garden beds, compost bins, or even a tire swing for a playful touch. Get inventive and think about how tyres can be repurposed to fit your garden’s needs.

By embracing DIY tire gardening, you’re not only giving old tyres a new lease on life but also adding a unique and practical element to your garden. This sustainable approach helps reduce waste and creates a functional, eye-catching garden space that’s both creative and environmentally friendly.