What to Pot Besides Plants

While plants are the most common inhabitants of pots, there's a world of possibilities beyond foliage. From culinary creations to artistic expressions, here are some creative and practical ideas for what to put in pots other than plants.

Pots are versatile containers that can transform any space, whether it's a bustling kitchen, a cozy living room, or a serene outdoor patio. So, let's explore the vast potential of these humble vessels and discover new ways to use them.

Culinary Creations

Pots aren't just for growing herbs; they can also be used to create delicious meals and store ingredients.

One popular use is as a Dutch oven for baking bread or slow-cooking stews. The heavy, lidded pot distributes heat evenly and traps steam, creating a perfect environment for baking and braising.

Self-Sustaining Sourdough Starter

Another culinary gem that thrives in a pot is a sourdough starter. This living culture of wild yeast and bacteria can be maintained and fed in a ceramic or glass pot, providing a steady supply of leaven for bread baking.

To create a sourdough starter, mix equal parts whole grain flour and water in a non-reactive pot. Cover it loosely with a cloth or lid, and let it rest in a warm place. Feed it daily with equal parts flour and water, and in about a week, you'll have a bubbly, active starter ready to use.

Infused Oils and Vinegars

Pots are also ideal for infusing oils and vinegars with herbs, spices, or fruits. This process involves combining ingredients in a pot, heating them gently, and then allowing them to steep together.

For example, you can create a fragrant Tuscan herb oil by combining olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, and a mix of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano in a pot. Heat the mixture gently, then let it cool and infuse for a few days before straining and using.

Artistic Expressions

Pots can be transformed into stunning works of art or used to display other artistic creations.

One unique idea is to use pots as canvas for painting or decoupage. Clean, empty pots can be painted with acrylic paints or covered in decorative paper cutouts using decoupage techniques. Once dry, these pots can be used to hold plants, pens, or other small items.

Mosaic Art

Another artistic pursuit is creating mosaic pots using broken tiles, glass, or stones. To make a mosaic pot, first, clean and prepare the pot. Then, arrange your chosen materials in a design on the pot's surface, using adhesive to secure them in place. Once the adhesive has dried, grout the mosaic to fill in any gaps and create a smooth, finished look.

Mosaic pots can be used as decorative planters or as standalone pieces of art. They're also a great way to upcycle old or broken pots, giving them new life and purpose.

Pottery and Ceramics

Of course, pots are also essential tools for creating pottery and ceramics. Whether you're working with clay on a potter's wheel or hand-building sculptures, pots are used to shape, fire, and glaze your creations.

If you're new to pottery, consider taking a class or workshop to learn the basics of working with clay. You'll soon discover the joy of creating functional and decorative pieces from this versatile medium.

Practical Storage Solutions

Pots can also serve as stylish and functional storage solutions, helping to organize and declutter your space.

In the kitchen, pots can be used to store dry goods like beans, grains, or pasta. Simply label each pot with its contents, and you'll have a visually appealing and organized pantry.

Office Organization

Pots aren't just for the kitchen; they can also be used to organize office supplies. Use small pots to hold pens, pencils, and markers, or larger pots to store paper clips, rubber bands, and other office essentials.

For a cohesive look, choose pots in a similar style or color scheme. You can also paint or label them to create a personalized touch.

Bathroom Amenities

In the bathroom, pots can be used to store toiletries, makeup, or other personal care items. Small pots are perfect for holding cotton swabs, cotton balls, or makeup brushes, while larger pots can be used to store bath salts, soaps, or other bath products.

To create a cohesive look, choose pots in a similar style or color scheme. You can also paint or decoupage them to match your bathroom's decor.

From culinary creations to artistic expressions and practical storage solutions, the possibilities for what to put in pots are endless. So, go ahead and explore the versatile world of pots, and let your creativity bloom in unexpected ways.