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Step outside to a patio, balcony, or porch filled with the fresh scents of basil, lavender, or parsley. With just a few simple materials—likely already in your home—you can create beautiful hanging herb planters that elevate your outdoor space and give old tin cans a brand-new purpose.

This project is simple, sustainable, and perfect for adding charm to any outdoor area. You don’t need to be a DIY expert to bring it to life. These planters are budget-friendly, eco-conscious, and a fun way to personalize your garden or outdoor retreat.

Let’s get started on crafting your own herb planters and making your outdoor space as cozy and inviting as it can be.

DIY Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Hanging Tin-Can Herb Planters

DIY Upcycled Tin Can Herb Planters for Your Outdoor Space

• Materials: Recycled tin cans (clean and dried), jute or cotton rope, eco-friendly outdoor paint (in pastel colors)

• Tools: Paintbrushes, drill, drill bits, scissors, glue gun

• Optional: Sandpaper for rough edges

Collect a few old tin cans of similar size. Clean them thoroughly, removing any leftover labels and residue. If there are sharp edges, use sandpaper to smooth them down.

• Materials: Eco-friendly outdoor-safe acrylic paint, brushes

• Tools: Paintbrushes, drop cloth to protect your workspace

Choose outdoor-safe acrylic paint in soft, pastel tones for a cozy, farmhouse-style look. Apply two to three coats for full coverage, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next. Add patterns or stencils for a touch of personality if desired.

Step 3: Drill Holes for Drainage and Hanging

Step 5: Add Potting Mix and Plant Your Herbs

• Materials: Organic potting soil, herb seedlings (such as lavender, basil, thyme, parsley)

• Tools: Small trowel or spoon, watering can

Add a layer of organic potting soil to each can, filling about 2/3 full. Place the herb seedling inside, then fill in around it with more soil until the can is almost full. Pat down gently and water lightly.

Transform Tin Cans into Stunning Herb Planters

Step 2: Paint and Design Your Cans

• Tools: Power drill, 1/4 inch drill bit (for drainage), smaller drill bit for rope holes

To keep your plants healthy, add drainage holes on the bottom of each can. Use a power drill with a 1/4 inch bit to drill 3-4 small holes. Next, drill two small holes near the top on opposite sides of the can for the rope hanger.

Step 4: Attach Rope and Prepare for Hanging

• Materials: Jute or cotton rope, scissors, glue gun (optional for extra hold)

• Tools: Scissors, glue gun

Measure and cut two equal lengths of rope (about 18-24 inches, depending on your desired hanging length). Thread each end of the rope through the holes near the top of the can and tie secure knots on the inside. For extra stability, add a dab of hot glue to the knots.

Final Tips for Enjoying Your Upcycled Herb Planters

Hang your new herb planters in a sunny spot on your patio, balcony, or porch. With the fresh scent of herbs and the cheerful look of pastel cans, your outdoor space will feel like an eco-friendly oasis in no time. Remember to water regularly, but avoid overwatering since tin cans can retain moisture.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials and Prep Your Tin Cans

Not sure which herbs to start with or how to care for them? Check out our guide on How to Start a Balcony Herb Garden for tips on choosing the best herbs for small spaces and keeping them thriving all year long.

Learn how to grow a lush herb garden in small spaces with our step-by-step balcony herb garden guide!