This basin was given to me from my mom (last summer). My dad was going to throw it out because it was just taking up space in their garage. I immediately said “YES” and knew right away what I wanted to do with it.
I wanted it to take up space in my garage! Truth be told it did get lost (buried) among everything else . It wasn’t until this past April that I was able to pull it out and put it to use. I had the idea of placing a plant inside of it, but wasn’t sure if I should replant one in the bottom? Or just place the pot inside? I chose the second option. Less dirt and much easier. Keep things simple, right?
I cut the hose that was attached to the bottom. It was long, unattractive, and the dogs kept pulling at it. The basin rests in the corner of the deck where it can still drain down in between the wood panels.
To give the plant some height, I placed the top of a plant stand in the bottom. One leg was already missing and it was headed for the garbage so I pulled the remaining ones off. I hate to throw something away if I can find a use for it elsewhere. It worked perfect! You can pick up these plant stands at your local dollar stores.
I never realized the rust until I edited the photos for this post. It may of come from what was in it while in the garage, but I’ll definitely bring it back in for the winter. I have no experience when using metal items outdoors, so if there is something I should treat it with please share in the comment section below. Thanks.
This was the other project I was using the double impatiens for. Remember the post where I transformed the vintage beverage crate into a flower pot? I used the same plant there as well. If you missed that post, click here.
As I water the plant everyday I check the drain so that water doesn’t sit in the bottom of the basin. So far so good. As the plant blooms it expands over the sides. Exactly what I hoped it would do.
P.S. This basin would also make a great place to grow an herb or salsa garden. I’m considering that for next year. I found a helpful resource in regards to planting food in them. Completely unaware that you should paint the inside to protect the plants from any possible metal reaction. Learn something new everyday. Here’s the link from eHow Home:

Very Cute, Jen!
Thanks!