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January: The Perfect Time to Build a Potting Station
The seed catalogs are here! Time to plan and pot for spring
It's January, the dead of winter, and most plants and trees are hunkered down awaiting those first warm days of spring. Gardeners may not be outside digging in the ground or pulling weeds, but rest assured they are busy plotting and planning their strategy for the upcoming growing season. Many are poring over all the seed catalogs that have been arriving in the mail this month, jotting down selections and placing their orders. Did you know January is "National Mail-Order Gardening Month?" Placing your orders now will ensure the best discounts from the mail-order seed companies.
January is also a great time to work on gardening projects you may have been putting off during the busy days of summer, like that potting bench or potting station for which you've been longing. Here are a few to get those potting station ideas germinating.
January is also a great time to work on gardening projects you may have been putting off during the busy days of summer, like that potting bench or potting station for which you've been longing. Here are a few to get those potting station ideas germinating.
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If you have a mudroom or back hallway, consider finding a spot for an old buffet or cabinet that can be converted into a potting station. If it's in the budget and the layout is feasible, include a sink for easy cleanup.
by Fiorella Design
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If plumbing doesn't allow for a sink, just find a cozy corner of a back porch, hall or mudroom and set up a potting bench with a few of the supplies you'll need. Don't forget a few pegs for those gardening hats.
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| Have an old twin or full-size bed you are no longer using? The headboard or footboard could make a great backdrop for your potting bench. What a whimsical and fun way to recycle an old bed! |
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| Recently, I had the opportunity to tour the Southern Living Idea House in Senoia, Georgia. The home was surrounded on all levels with wonderful outdoor rooms and spaces. This seating area, hidden behind a brick wall in a cozy courtyard, was just off the terrace level family room. If you look closely, you can just see a charming potting station in the little alcove just beyond. |
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| It was partially sheltered by a small shed roof overhead. As you can see, it was a nice, large potting bench. |
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| Upon closer inspection, I discovered it was outfitted with a vintage sink. A narrow shelf above and a wide shelf below offered lots of good storage for pots and gardening supplies. Of course, I wouldn't recommend ever leaving any chemicals within reach of young children. You'll want to keep those up high or under lock and key. Wouldn't this be a wonderful spot to spend some quality potting time this spring? |
by Fruits of Labor
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While you're waiting out the winter, now would be a great time to build your own potting bench. Build one yourself from a potting bench plan, and you'll be all set when the first robin arrives.
A good potting bench will normally include a flat surface on which to work and shelves above and below for storing extra pots and gardening supplies. A drawer isn't necessary but can really come in handy for storing gardening gloves or gardening twine. If there's room, add a few hooks for hanging your favorite gardening tools.
A good potting bench will normally include a flat surface on which to work and shelves above and below for storing extra pots and gardening supplies. A drawer isn't necessary but can really come in handy for storing gardening gloves or gardening twine. If there's room, add a few hooks for hanging your favorite gardening tools.
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If you're not inclined to bring out the hammer and nails, a small sideboard will work just great. Paint it with exterior-grade paint, then tuck it into a corner so it's partially protected, and it should hold up well. A big shelf and a good-size window box mounted on the wall above will provide additional storage.
by Atypical Type A
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A potting station doesn't have to take up much space. A few shelves and a sink near an entrance will do just fine.
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Wouldn't we all love a gardening shed to go with that potting bench? Hey, it's January ... how fast can you build?
What's your idea of the perfect potting bench?
What's your idea of the perfect potting bench?
Ideabook updated on Jan. 4, 2012.
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Erin, I love your hanging chair!
Becky...me, too! I love that you noticed Erin's chair. Have you done an Ideabook on hanging chairs, yet? :)
Design...thanks! I have spring on the brain already. The bench with the sink is pretty awesome!
My husband made my potting bench about 10 years ago , and I still love it .
FABBY