Upcycle An Old TV Tray Into A Simple Plant Stand For Your Patio

If your patio garden is getting a bit crowded, using a plant stand can offer extra vertical space so your plant babies can spread out. It can also add a touch of visual charm by placing flowers and plants at varying heights instead of everything being sprawled out across ground level. Plant stands can be a useful element for elevating the vibe of your patio garden haven. But if you've scouted plant stands at your local garden center recently, you know they can get pricey. Instead of splurging on something new, you can save money by upcycling an old TV tray into a unique plant stand for your patio.

TV trays might dredge up memories of eating microwave dinners while sitting on the couch watching "Jeopardy" and "Wheel of Fortune." But we're not using them for nightly entertainment anymore. We're transforming them into small patio additions that spruce up your backyard. If you don't already have a supply of TV trays stashed in your basement or garage, you can generally find them at secondhand stores, as they are a valuable thrift store item you shouldn't overlook for your garden. Alternatively, you can search yard sales or online sellers for a bargain price. In addition to a TV tray, you'll also need an orbital sander or just a piece of sandpaper to use by hand, a screwdriver or drill, and outdoor wood paint and sealant. Optional supplies include zip ties, stencils, and paint brushes.

Start by cleaning up the TV tray. Using a damp cloth, wipe it down to remove any dirt or cobwebs that have accumulated while in storage. Then, check to make sure the legs and tabletop are securely in place. Tighten any screws that might be loose, or replace them with new ones if needed, using a screwdriver or drill. Sand down the entire unit with an orbital sander or simply sand it by hand with a piece of sandpaper.

To paint the tray, begin with a primer since sanding may remove any existing protective finish on the wood. Then, layer on an acrylic latex paint and finish with a layer of clear sealant to help it stand up to the outdoor elements. Alternatively, you can use a wood stain if you prefer the look of the natural wood, which can be found as a stain and sealer in one to save a step. For a unique look, don't be afraid of redecorating your old TV tray with additional design elements. You can use stencils on the top of the tray to create a custom design or choose a fun color for a pop of personality.

Once the tray has completely dried, it's ready to be placed out on the patio. If you have a slatted perimeter wall and need to add extra stability, you can use zip ties to secure the tray legs to the wall, as Arica from The Simple Home Place did. You can place one larger plant on the stand or arrange several smaller ones. Trailing plants such as Hedera ivy can look especially striking on the tray, with long vines cascading over the sides.