5 Ways to Re-use Broken Terracotta Pots

Terracotta, a type of clay, holds moisture from potting soil and can crack when exposed to freezing temperatures. In cold climates this is almost a certainty. To prevent it, empty the containers and store them in a frost-free place, like your garage, until spring.

If you cannot bring the pot indoors and a hard freeze is expected, give it some insulation. Wrap it in burlap, an old blanket or even

If you are caught off guard with that freeze or decide to risk it and your terracotta pots crack- all is not lost. You can possibly repair it by using  a waterproof indoor-outdoor silicone caulk. Find directions in this SF Gate Guide.  If the break is beyond repair, there are still a few options.

Here Are 5 Ways to Re-use Broken Terracotta Pots.

1. Use smaller shards in the bottom of planters to aid drainage. Just put them over the drainage holes and plant as usual.

2. Use bigger pieces in the garden for accent pieces. They look especially good with hen and chicks and other succulents.

3. Make plant label markers from the pieces. See 20 Creative DIY Plant Label Markers from The Micro Gardener for this and other ideas.

4. Here’s a cute idea from Southern States (dot) com – Make a toad house!

5. Use pot shards as decorative (and also functional) mulch, See the article found at Southern Living.

What other ways have you used broken pieces of terracotta around the garden? Find other frugal gardening tips on our Gardening page.