Watering globes are a beloved garden accessory among gardening enthusiasts, and for good reason. These glass or plastic bulbs, often shaped like teardrops, are designed to gradually release water into the soil of potted plants, ensuring that they stay hydrated for extended periods. Many gardeners rely on them for their convenience and visual appeal, as they come in a variety of designs and colors. However, as with many household items, watering globes can outlive their original purpose, leading to a conundrum for the environmentally-conscious gardener: what to do with these used watering globes?
The good news is that repurposing watering globes is not only easy but also an opportunity to get creative. The versatility and unique shape of these globes make them perfect for a wide range of projects, from functional to purely decorative. In this article, we will explore eight brilliant ways to reuse watering globes around the home and garden, helping you reduce waste and add a touch of beauty to your surroundings.
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Decorative Light Fixtures:
One way to repurpose watering globes is by transforming them into decorative light fixtures. Fill the globe with a string of battery-operated LED lights, and you'll have a stunning addition to your outdoor patio or indoor space. The glass surface of the globe will beautifully diffuse the light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. You can even hang several globes at different heights for a captivating display.
Mini Terrariums:
Turn your old watering globes into mini terrariums that showcase small plants or air plants. Carefully fill the globe with a layer of small pebbles, activated charcoal, potting soil, and your chosen plants. The globe's opening allows for easy watering, and the transparent glass allows you to watch your mini ecosystem thrive. These terrariums are perfect for displaying on tabletops, desks, or windowsills.
Garden Ornaments:
Watering globes can be repurposed as decorative garden ornaments. Their elegant shape and colorful designs make them ideal for adding visual interest to your garden. You can hang them from tree branches, place them among flower beds, or use them as focal points in rock gardens. Consider filling them with colored water or glitter to enhance their visual appeal.
Bird Feeders:
Create a unique bird feeder by reusing your watering globe. Simply fill the globe with birdseed and hang it from a tree branch, a shepherd's hook, or a plant hanger. The globe's narrow neck will regulate the flow of seed, preventing waste and attracting a variety of feathered friends to your garden.
Floating Pond Décor:
Enhance the beauty of your garden pond or water feature by using watering globes as floating décor. Fill the globes with water to ensure they float, and add food coloring, beads, or small shells for added visual interest. The floating globes will create a serene and enchanting effect as they drift gently across the water's surface.
Table Centerpieces:
Watering globes can be used to create elegant table centerpieces for special occasions or everyday use. Fill the globes with water, add fresh flowers or floating candles, and arrange them in a decorative bowl or tray. The result is a stunning and sophisticated centerpiece that is sure to impress your guests.
Wind Chimes:
Transform your old watering globes into beautiful wind chimes that provide soothing sounds for your outdoor space. Attach a string or fishing line to the neck of each globe, and suspend them from a wooden or metal frame. When the wind blows, the globes will gently sway and produce calming, melodic sounds.
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Plant Watering Stakes:
While watering globes are originally designed to water potted plants, they can also be repurposed as watering stakes for outdoor garden beds. By inserting the narrow neck of the globe into the soil near the base of a plant, you can provide a steady and controlled flow of water directly to the roots. This method is especially useful for plants that require deep watering, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and squash. To enhance the functionality of the watering stake, consider adding water-absorbing crystals or slow-release fertilizer to the globe before placing it in the soil. This will ensure that your plants receive both the hydration and nutrients they need to thrive.