If you have some empty soda cans, before taking them to recycling you can use them to create a small vertical garden. This is a simple and inexpensive craft that lets you reuse these containers and, at the same time, add a green touch to spaces such as the kitchen, the patio, the balcony or a small terrace. Also, you do not need large pots or too much space to start with some plants that you can use every day.
One of the advantages of this type of garden is that you can tailor it to your needs and choose the herbs you use most in cooking. Some aromatic plants grow well in small containers, as long as they have enough substrate, drainage and the proper light conditions. Thus, in addition to decorating a wall, you will have fresh ingredients to prepare infusions, season your foods or give them a special aroma to your recipes.
That said, before placing the plants, it is important to properly condition the cans, as simply filling them with soil is not enough. They need holes at the bottom to allow excess water to escape, protected edges to prevent cuts, and a sturdy support that can withstand the weight of the containers. Once you have the structure ready, you can choose among these five aromatic plants to begin your vertical garden.
5 Aromatic Plants Ideal for Growing in Soda Cans
1. Mint or Spearmint
Mint and spearmint are two of the most popular options for starting a small home garden, as they grow easily and their leaves have a fresh aroma that you can use in infusions, waters, desserts and various preparations. Their stems can also spread quickly, so it is advisable to keep them in individual containers to prevent them from occupying the space of other plants. A can can serve as a pot if it has enough soil and a good drainage system, although you will need to transplant it when its roots grow too large.
2. Thyme
Thyme is an excellent alternative for this type of garden because it is a compact-growing aromatic plant that does not require much water. Its small leaves have a strong scent and are widely used to season meats, soups, vegetables and sauces. In addition, its appearance can give a special touch to the decoration, especially if you place several cans at different heights and combine its leaves with other herbs of different shades of green.
3. Oregano
If you are looking for a plant that you can use frequently in the kitchen, oregano is one of the best options. Its aromatic leaves are used to prepare sauces, dressings, stews and various dishes, so having it nearby can be quite practical. It is also a hardy herb that adapts to small containers during its early growth stages, although you should consider that it will need more space as it develops.
4. Parsley
Parsley is another herb that is worth including in your vertical garden, especially if you tend to use it to prepare broths, soups, salads and garnishes. Its green leaves bring a freshness to foods and you can cut them as needed, without having to remove the entire plant. Although a soda can can work as an initial container, consider that parsley develops a main root that needs some depth, so it is advisable to choose a tall can or transplant it when space becomes insufficient.
5. Basil
Basil cannot be missing in a garden of aromatic plants, as its leaves have a very distinctive aroma that pairs with pastas, salads, pizzas, sauces and tomato-based preparations. It is a plant that can grow in small containers during its first weeks, but it needs enough space to develop its roots and extend its stems. Therefore, if you decide to place it in a soda can, the best option is to choose a compact-sized variety and monitor its growth to move it to a larger container when necessary.
