As a terribly cheap person I normally don't like anything made of plastic, but as a gardener I am always on the lookout for free planters. When I saw these old pool filters in the trash I just couldn't resist finding a way to use them in my garden.

Step 1: Tools

The tools required for this are fairly basic, a drill with a 2 1/2 inch and a 1 inch hole saw. The plastic these are made from make the cutting go really smoothly, it is about the same as the composite deck boards used for decking. Make sure the blades are newly sharpened or the friction will make the plastic bond to them.

Step 2: Adding the Holes

Using the 2 1/2 inch hole saw, cut out the holes for the plants.

When laying out the holes don't worry to much about getting them exactly aligned. Once the plants have grown out a bit it won't matter. The main concern should be spacing them far enough apart that each plant has enough room for its roots to grow an entire season with out getting bound. I didn't put any holes beneath the halfway mark on these spheres because the pressure from the water may wash the dirt out.

Step 3: Don't Forget the Drains

Use the 1 inch hole saw to make drains in the bottom of the planter.

I used a one inch hole near the base so I wouldn't have to tip the pot if there is a drainage issue. They will be heavy once filled with dirt. I try to place them symmetrically but it is not necessary.