Do you have a couple of cinder blocks sitting around that need a purpose? If so, you should consider turning them into flowerpots. Yes, some plant species flourish in cinder blocks.
This is a great way to recycle your old cinder blocks but first, you need to find the right plants for your project.
There are hundreds of plant species that can be utilized for this purpose. However, you will need to prepare the cinder blocks for performing the transplant.
Strawberries, peas, pole beans, lettuce, spinach, eggplants, scallions, carrots, garlic, and beets are some of the plants that grow well in cinder blocks.
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1. Beet Plant “Beta vulgaris”
The beet plant “Beta vulgaris” belongs to the “Am aranthaceae” family. The Beta vulgaris generates root vegetables that are known to flourish in cinder blocks which create raised beds.
The key is to ensure the soil is rich in nutrients, well-draining, and free of weeds.
The beet plant has a speedy maturation time, making them the perfect succession-planted crop.
2. Eggplant “Solanum Melongena”
Eggplant “Solanum melongena” belongs to the “Solanaceae” family and the “Plantae” kingdom. Evidence dating back to 1763, shows the eggplant was initially cultivated from white cultivars.
According to research, the white eggplant was similar to a hen’s egg.
The eggplant is a perennial plant that grows well in raised gardens. So, cinder blocks will make the perfect start for your new eggplant garden.
3. Lettuce “Lactuca Sativa”
Lettuce “Lactuca sativa” belongs to the “Asteracea” family and “Lactuca” genus. The plant can pretty much be planted in any garden and produce wonderfully. However, lettuce will flourish in a raised bed.
It is recommended to prepare the cinder blocks in advance.
Utilizing outdoor paint along the exterior will help seal the moisture in the soil. Keep the weeds cut back and your lettuce will grow beautifully.
4. Pole Bean “Phaseolous Vulgaris”
The pole bean “Phaseolous vulgaris” is a member of the “Fabaceae” family. Pole beans are delicious when they are homegrown. It is unfortunate that some people are unaware of the simplicity of growing pole beans.
With well-drained, nutrient-enriched soil, water, and sunlight your pole beans will flourish in cinder blocks.
The more you protect your pole beans, you will be rewarded with a higher yield. If you are consistent, there may be enough to put away for the winter.
5. Carrot “Daucus Carota”
The carrot “Daucus carota” belongs to the “N.O. Umbelliferae” family. Carrots are filled with beta carotene, which is believed to fight off cancer and other diseases.
Carrots are root vegetables like beets and potatoes. They can be added to endless recipes like soups, salads, pot pies, vegetable dips, and cakes.
6. Strawberries “Fragaria X Ananassa”
If you’re interested in growing something that will pay dividends in the long run, try strawberries. Most people love eating strawberries because they’re juicy and delicious.
You’ll be thrilled to know that strawberry plants can thrive in small locations. You could easily grow them in a cinderblock.
The plants will need at least 1 inch of water each week. If you grow healthy strawberry plants, there is a good chance that they’ll regrow from their roots every year.
During the plant’s fruit-bearing season, it needs up to two inches of water each day. Another thing to remember is that these plants do not thrive in shady locations.
Instead, they should receive six hours of direct sunlight each day.
7. Spinach “Spinacia Oleracea”
Spinach is another plant that can easily be grown in your cinderblock. However, you’ll need to make sure that the conditions are perfect for this plant.
For instance, you’ll need well-drained soil. Furthermore, the soil’s pH level should range from 6.5 to 7.0.
For the best results, start by mixing rich organic matter or aged compost into the soil. Typically, you can expect your spinach plants to grow in roughly six weeks.
Just remember that there are summer and winter cultivars. Each type is harvested at different points.
By growing a combination, you can easily enjoy spinach leaves all year.
8. Peas “Pisum Sativum”
Peas need to be grown early in spring. It is pertinent to ensure that the plants are going to mature while the temperatures are still cool. Most plants will need a trellis so they can climb.
Still, you shouldn’t have any issues growing peas in your cinderblocks. Peas are going to thrive in full sun exposure.
They should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight. It is best to avoid more than eight hours of exposure though. If they are planted in partial shade, they’ll take longer to grow.
9. Garlic “Allium Sativum”
If you’re adamant about growing a plant in your cinderblock, you should try growing garlic.
It is easy to grow and you’ll likely enjoy the rewards in the future. Just remember that you’ll need to grow the seeds at least eight inches in the ground.
The only downside with garlic is the fact that it takes a long time to grow. On average, you can expect to wait eight to nine months for your garlic plants to grow.
Depending on the type of soil you’re using, your plants will need between one and two inches of water each week.
10. Scallions “Allium Fistulosum”
Scallions can be grown in cinderblocks, but you’ll need to plan carefully. It is essential to make sure that you plant them at the right time and use appropriate soil.
Even if you cut the scallions, they will likely grow back. You’ll just need to protect the plants from frost and snow. Therefore, you can enjoy scallions each year.
Sow your scallion seeds roughly eight to 10 weeks before the last frost. Using a seed starting formula is a good way to ensure that your plants thrive. It can take up to 14 days for your seedlings to emerge from the soil.
However, it could happen in just seven days too. Give your scallions at least six hours of direct sunlight.
Summary
Cinder blocks can be decorated to add beauty to your garden. Utilize them to support a raised garden and grow all kinds of vegetables.
