My Garden Grows – in a Mop Bucket?!

You’ve seen my patio and know I love mixing old and new for a one of a kind look.

I’m not talking about the plastic bucket I (rarely) fill with water and reluctantly swish around on my floors.

No, I’m talking something much grander …

Vintage.  Galvanized. Fantabulous.  A mop bucket planter!

Mop Bucket Planter kellyelko.com

The buckets were found at a few different estate sales for $5 each!

Mop Bucket Planters kellyelko.com

Love these vintage mop bucket planters kellyelko.com

Even Gnomeo gives his good housekeeping seal of approval.

Love these vintage mop bucket planters and galvanized tubs kellyelko.com

Remember my dresser planter that started out life as a $6 thrift shop find?

Unique planter ideas kellyelko.com

Galvanized Mop Bucket Planters eclectiallyvintage.com

My indoor mop bucket just doesn’t give me the same thrill – that’s for sure!

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57 Comments

  1. I am currently looking for a big old galvanized trough–thought they’d be easier to find here in NC. I may have to pony up and go to the Farm store for a ne one. I have big plans. *rubs hands together*

  2. your garden is very cute in the mop buckets, kelly:) its funny, i have some planted, and never thought of them as a mop bucket, until now!

  3. I had plans to do the same thing with my mop buckets…if it would STAY warm here. I woke up yesterday to the sight of snow on my neighbors roof!

  4. i love it! i think it is perfect! i have an old galvanized bucket for some tomato plants…. and if i had a mop bucket, i would rock it, too.

  5. kelly,
    i too LOVE anything galvanized. i’m in the process of replanting my hibiscus tree in a wheeled mop bucket so that i can wheel it back & forth into the house when the seasons change…found it for $16 at an antique shop, it’s huge! you’ve inspired me to replant my galv. buckets that are sitting in my potting shed…as i love how it looks on your steps. something for my front to add some curb appeal.
    enjoy your weekend,
    judi

  6. I love your mop buckets! Your garden grows beautifully in them, and they exude character. Actually, your whole porch is full of cheerful, welcoming character! Anything vintage, and I’m in 🙂

  7. Cute! And exactly why I didn’t buy containers yesterday at the nursery. Why buy typical pots when I can have mop buckets?

    ~Bliss~

  8. I love the idea of planting in galvanized buckets! Definitely beats actual mopping. Then again, is there anything that DOESN’T beat mopping? Maybe cleaning the shower?

    Where is Gnomeo’s fair Juliet? He must be lonely.

  9. Makes climbing stairs worth the effort. I only wish I could have steps leading to a lovely landing as you have, complete with that adorable planter. The metal contrasted by the pretty floral color and softness is too sweet. Wish I could see it in person.
    Liz

  10. Those mop buckets make such great planters. I’m really gathering up ideas for my front porch and I love this one. Make sure you keep an eye on the gnome, I’m not sure he can be trusted….

  11. Kelly, last week I was just commenting on Funky Junk (I think) about my mop bucket with rollers and a long wooden handle that I used to plant red geraniums. A local garden club wanted it for a raffle so i let it go. That was several years ago and I miss it so. I love the look of a whole parade of them marching down the stairs! I guess I will have to post a picture of my urinal (from France as a joke from my brother!) planted with what else – impatiens!

    Distressed Donna Down Home

  12. Kelly, I love the vintage galvanized buckets full of plants. They are so cute on the steps. I appreciate you linking to the OHP this week. Thanks!

  13. This is the cutest idea. Looooooove it! This is such an inspirational post. Thanks so much for sharing! I would love it if you would link this to our WIW blog party. Hope you can join us!

    Paula
    Ivyandelephants.blogspot.com

  14. I’ve been using galvanized buckets for flower planters for years, but I drill holes in them for drainage. The mop bucket I have (just like yours!) I haven’t used because I didn’t want to “ruin” it by drilling holes, but your flowers are so pretty in it, I have to re-think its purpose! So my question is: how did you plant geraniums in your bucket?

    Thanks!

    Maria

  15. Hey, I collect galvanized mop buckets, but most of them are inside the house being used to store groceries, wood for the Franklin stove, pellets, etc. along with old washtubs, metal refrigerators/pre-fridge iceboxes, etc. Everything is metal! I have planted into galvanized pails, but not the mop buckets, as I am afraid to ruin them. Love your pics!

    ——Cookie in California

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