Get savvy with salvage
Add texture, interest and personality with upcycled items
An old chimney pot planted with trailing pelargoniums, or deep purple petunias tumbling out of a battered copper cooking pot are good examples of using reclaimed or upcycled items to create a characterful outside space. Second hand doesn’t necessarily mean cheap, though it’s still perfectly possible to spot a bargain at a car boot sale. Set your alarm and get there early, because anything old or antique is usually snapped up first. Antiques fairs are more expensive, but you’ll find a wide selection of gardenalia and you can barter. Don’t insult dealers with a derisory offer, though – 10-20% discount is usually acceptable. A specialist salvage yard will offer a huge choice, and items are generally sorted by type, such as reclaimed stone, paving slabs, edging etc. These reclamation yards factor in labour and transportation costs, so their prices might be a little higher. Ebay is still worth trying, though you need to add in the costs of a courier or self collection, as salvaged items are usually too heavy to post. For local bargains, head to Gumtree (www.gumtree.com). For savvy salvage, choose materials that won’t rot or rust. Galvanised steel animal troughs make long-lasting planters, while zinc tubs and old baths are rust-resistant. Vintage ceramic sinks are virtually indestructible and copper pots gain an attractive verdigris patina as they age. Anything made from wood or iron will last a couple of seasons outside at most.