Rake&Co.

Most SAQs (liquor stores, for those of you who live elsewhere) sell their empty wooden wine crates at a very reasonable cost ($3-$5) and all the proceeds go to a local charity. They are really great looking objects and these days are being used for tons of artful DIY projects. 

There are a couple of things to keep in mind when it comes to planting in crates: drainage and rot-proofing. The first thing you’ll want to do after procuring these eco-friendly and civically responsible items is drill holes in the bottom so the water you will feed your plants can go somewhere. It really is easy and can be done with a basic drill. 

Next seal your wood or your boxes will decay pretty quickly. We think it’s always important to choose non-toxic materials, but in this case it is vital as you will be growing food in these so the last thing you want are chemicals seeping into your meals! 

Once the sealant has dried, you are good to go. Pick up soil from a local merchant that has the right mix of nutrients for growing food. If you want to add an extra splash of fun to your little potted farm (or have trouble identifying greens and herbs!) cover one side with chalkboard paint and mark each box with a wax pencil. 

We opted to create a herb farm for the project which includes mint, rosemary, oregano, thyme, sage and dill. We also created a planter for arugula which is a surprisingly easy lettuce to grow! 

Of course, all the usual growing tips are advised: make sure you have the sunlight required, water according to instructions and above all, enjoy. There is little quite so satisfying as eating from your own (tiny) plot of land! (This neat idea was first spotted on a wonderful blog called LLH Designs!)