How to make a playful tyre planter

Start with used tyres that are in good condition. Scrub them thoroughly with warm soapy water and a stiff brush to remove dirt, dust and residue. Rinse well and allow them to dry completely. Choose a flat, stable area near a fence or wall where the stacked feature will sit securely.

Apply a non-toxic exterior acrylic paint in thin, even coats. This will help reduce UV breakdown and heat. For a nostalgic 90s look, use bold primary colours or alternate bright shades in the stack. For a more modern feel, choose muted or complementary tones suited to contemporary garden decor ideas. Allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next and before stacking.

Stack the tyres in any pattern you like, making sure you align them evenly so they are balanced and stable. Try slightly offsetting each one for a staggered look, alternating colours as you stack, or creating a pyramid-style shape for a lower feature. A single tyre can also be hung securely from the fence to add height and variation. Mixing stacked and hanging tyres gives the display that layered, retro playground feel while allowing the layout to suit the space. Position them against a fence or wall for extra support. Avoiding full sun will also help reduce any UV breakdown.

Before adding soil, choose a lining material that allows water to drain through. This may be a coconut fibre liner, hessian or a sheet of plastic. If using hessian, it can be secured in place with a staple gun and will allow water to drain efficiently. If using plastic, poke several drainage holes in it using a screwdriver before securing it so water does not pool at the base.

The lining does not have to be permanently fixed in place and can simply sit inside the tyre, but avoid moving the planter once filled if it is unsecured. If hanging a tyre against a wall, lining is optional. Soil and plants can sit directly inside the tyre, though drilling a few drainage holes in the rubber will help prevent water build-up.

Fill each lined tyre with a high quality potting mix, ensuring water can drain freely. Plant a mix of colourful flowering plants and greenery. Trailing plants work particularly well in the higher tyres and the hanging tyre, softening the edges and adding movement. Combining different heights, textures and colours creates a fuller display.