Springing into "re-purposed" garden projects

Spring gardening brings a rather long "to-do" list.  My list usually focuses on planting, but this spring we've focused more on maintaining existing gardens which means several delayed projects have come to the front of the list, and they include ways to better enjoy the garden we've created during the last few years.

Re-purposing is a habit for us and this "new" swing from an old frame is the biggest project so far this year.

A neighbor gave us her old swing when she moved.  The metal frame was sturdy but a little rusty and the original sewn-on sling fabric was torn and in very sad shape.  It was destined for the trash until we rescued it.

We removed the fabric, cleaned and sanded the frame, then a couple of cans of black spray paint later it was ready to add a new seating structure.  We decided on wood instead of replacing the fabric.   A few pieces of scrap decking cut to fit and finished with outdoor stain and Voila! -- a new swing which will now last many years in exchange for a little elbow grease.  We inserted the screws through the metal frame instead of through the wood providing a very clean look which will extend the life of the seating.  It also does not trap leaves or become moldy like the old fabric seating.

We leveled and mulched a space under the trees a few months ago.  I already have cushions which fit, but with or without cushions the swing makes a nice place to relax with a good view of the creek and birdbath.

Next up are two new barrel ring spheres.  I purchased the rings on a recent trip to Fredericksburg.  The large sphere in the foreground was made last year and the two on the left are new.  We use metal screws to hold the rings in place and the key to keeping it all together is an "equator" ring around the outside.  Small, medium, and large will make a fun accent grouping for the garden.

I needed very narrow and shallow window boxes to sit on the sills since drilling into the stone is not an option.  Finding the right width was a challenge and after a long search we decided to make them ourselves.  Leftover fencing boards turned out to be just the right depth and six simple boxes were easy to cut and assemble.

We put tapered feet rails on the bottom so they sit somewhat level on the slanted stone sill.  I painted two for the front windows with several layers of paint which I also sanded to blend with the stone.  Planted up with a selection of favorite succulents, I enjoy the view from my office.  Most of these succulents are fresh cuttings just stuck down in the soil to root.  Succulents are the easiest plants to propagate and work beautifully for so many applications.  I will rarely have to water these even in the hottest part of summer.

Re-use, re-purpose, re-cycle is a fun way to add character to the garden.  More spring projects are on the way and I plan to spend less time gardening and more time enjoying the garden this year.