How to turn metal containers into a planter

One of my favorite planters aren't bought from the store but made from vintage metal containers found at my local thrift store salvage yard. Lightweight metal containers such as camping pots, vintage coffee or teapots, storage tins, even galvanized wash basins or watering cans all make terrific planters for flowers, herbs, and succulents.

Converting an old metal pot into a planter is super easy to do. All it takes is a hammer and a good sized nail which is used to pierce drainage holes in the bottom of the container.

For small to mid size containers, I'll punch drainage holes every two inches or so. For large containers (such as galvanized wash basins), the drainage holes are spaced about 6 inches apart.
Once the drainage holes have been punched, the container is flipped over and filled with potting mix and a few plants. Because I live on top of an old river bottom, I'll often add a cobblestone or two to my containers.

Here is an old camping kettle that's found a new life as a container rock garden. This kettle is filled with hens & chicks, along with two varieties of sedum.

An old copper tea pot also works. This vintage kettle has been planted with mint.

"Fake old" tins also make great planters. This 90's era tin contains oregano and crushed lavarock mulch.

Even modern gadgets can be upcycled into an unusual garden pot. I found this aluminum stove-top popcorn popper at a salvage yard. It was the perfect container for two different herb plants.