Renee brings a unique twist to her garden through imaginative use of recycled containers. She has incorporated old cabinets, chairs, wagons, and even bathtubs into her gardening projects.

The seeds of her obsession began with her Oklahoma grandmother. "She would plant in old tin cans and odd containers, and I love it," says Renee. "She did it because it was all she had. But it was art."

Today, Renee's garden is a canvas where she can play, experiment and pursue her creative vision. Often her projects become meaningful, personalized gifts, like the container garden made in a riding boot for an equestrian friend. And old desk drawer became a "fairy garden" for 4-year-old daughter Elliott—a place to care for the snails she rescues from nearby plantings.

For Renee and her family, that sense of fun, whimsy, and self-expression is what gardening is all about. "We plant what we love to look at and what makes us happy."

Superior water retention makes this soil the perfect choice for container gardening.

Renee Bucchauser's garden is her outlet for creativity. She loves creating unique container gardens in boots, watering cans, dresser drawers, chairs and other unexpected objects. Let these ideas inspire you:

Renee's Tip #1

Container gardens planted in recycled items make great one-of-a-kind gifts. You can use just about anything—an old bucket, a wheel-barrow, or a vintage coffee can. Browse garage sales for ideas, and use your imagination! It's fun to choose containers that have personal signifigance—for example, plant herbs in a saucepan for your favorite gourmet cook. Make sure your container has adequate drainage; if necessary, drill a few holes in the bottom and line it with gravel or coconut fiber.

Renee's Tip #2

The beauty of container gardening lies in the fact that you don't need a large garden space to enjoy it. Worn-down furniture, like an old chair, can become a cheery container garden even if you're short on space. To create your own chair container garden, start by replacing the seat of the chair with sturdy netting. Cover the netting with moss. Add potting mix and your choice of plants and flowers. Planting vines and allowing them to grow up the back of the chair will add a romantic, whimsical feel to the container garden. Add a personal touch by painting your favorite quote or lyric on the chair.