The Vintage Garden Tool That Plant-Loving Collectors Dream Of Finding Secondhand

Avid collectors vintage goods who are also plant-lovers will often scour secondhand stores in the hope of finding unique garden tools that they can add to their collections, as well as using vintage thrift store knick-knacks as planters. While many vintage tools can be picked up fairly inexpensively — not everyone sees the value in procuring these items — there's one vintage item that gardening collectors only dream about finding at a secondhand price, and that is a vintage brass watering can. These lovely old water receptacles only get better with age as the brass takes on that gorgeous patina it's so well-known for.

Along with a similar antique copper garden item, there are plenty of cases of these vintage brass watering cans turning up at antique markets with prices climbing into the hundreds of dollars, especially if the can was originally from the Victorian or mid-century era. So, finding one in a thrift store or a secondhand market at an affordable price will have any collector quickly grabbing for their cash while internally jumping for joy.

Interestingly, the first patented watering can was made by John Haws in the United Kingdom in 1886. These cans were made from metals such as copper and brass, and have distinguishing features such as long spouts and dual handles. Their design stems from the need to water plants that were sitting on the back shelves in greenhouses and conservatories. You can identify one of these beauties because it will have the Haws round mark stamped on the top. Quite surprisingly, the company is still making their beautiful watering cans today with many of the same design features. If you do happen to spot a vintage brass watering can at your local secondhand shop, and it appears to be missing its spout head, ask the store owner or staff member if they have it behind the counter, as people like to steal them if left on display.

Many of the vintage brass watering cans you may come across will most likely have a long spout and a lovely curved handle, making these pieces aesthetically pleasing as they take pride of place on a plant shelf or in the midst of your indoor plant collection. They also make the perfect decor piece to bring your vintage garden party to life. But don't be afraid to use the watering can for its intended purpose because brass naturally keeps water fresh. This means that these brass watering cans are also perfect to use as vases to add a floral display to your greenery. Plus, the design of these receptacles makes them a pleasure to use for precision watering without spilling.