These boots aren't made for walking

These L.L. Bean boots from the 1980's have been a great container for succulents the last few years. I can't stand to throw anything away, so these boots make a fun container. Visitors always get a laugh out of them.

Anything can be a container, it's all about choosing the right plant for the right place. I've been posting lots of photos on my Facebook page showing the way imaginative gardeners create containers out of everything from shopping carts to large, downed trees. Succulents are for the smallest pots, tomatoes for the largest. Whatever pot you choose, be sure it has drainage.

This old drain pipe makes a fun container filled with hens and chicks. Photos by Doug Oster

I found this big crock at the thrift store for $20. The 'Gryphon' begonia loves it.

I converted this rusted and rotted out garden cart into a pretty container for the corner of the vegetable garden.

Containers are always a great idea in April, but in weather like this they need watered. In my case the curse of shade is actually a bonus. Like most gardeners, I watch the weather and lately have been spending lots of time waiting for rain. When it doesn't come, I'm out in the morning soaking the containers as needed.

Take a look in the garage, attic or tool shed for things you could make into containers. The plants to fill them up are all on sale at garden centers and nurseries.