Last Updated on April 14, 2025 by teamobn
Got an old bicycle that’s seen better days? Why not turn it into a garden decoration as a bicycle flower planter?
Bicycles are a cherished part of childhood for many people. They offer a sense of freedom and independence and are a great way to explore the world. For numerous children, a bicycle is their first taste of independence and responsibility.
Revamp Your Yard with a Creative DIY Bicycle Flower Planter
Bicycles also offer a great way to exercise. Riding a bike is a low-impact form of cardio that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Bicycling is also a great way to explore the outdoors and enjoy the fresh air. 
Whether you’re reminiscing about your own childhood adventures on a bike, or you’re helping your child enjoy their first taste of independence, bicycles will always be a part of childhood.
There comes a time when that bicycle you enjoyed riding for years, needs to retire. You might even have that bike sitting in your garage right now. Don’t get rid of it yet because you can convert it into something beautiful and functional. You can upcycle your old bicycle into a lot of DIY bicycle projects. 
Transforming an old bicycle into a bicycle planter!
You can also turn your old bicycle into a planter that also doubles as garden decoration! First, decide whether you want your bicycle planter fixed on the wall or part of your garden decoration. If you’re going to hang it on the wall, make sure you have a sturdy wall that can support the weight of your DIY planter.
You’ll also need to consider the height, so your plants can get the sunlight they need. You can attach the bicycle planter to a wall by creating a bike rack on the wall where you want your DIY planter to be.
If you’re placing your bicycle planter in the garden, make sure it’s in a spot that gets enough sunlight. You’ll also want to make sure it’s not in an area that gets too much foot traffic.
Even though your bike may have its own stand, you can further secure it by placing a metal rod to support it. This will help to prevent your bike from tipping over and ensure that it remains standing well.
Next, decide what flowers you are going to use with your bicycle planter. You’ll want to consider the size and location of your planter when selecting your flowers. For example, if you are using a small planter on the front of your bicycle, you may want to choose smaller flowers. 
Some good choices for flowers that will do well in a bicycle planter include impatiens, petunias, and marigolds. All you need to prepare are baskets to hold the plant of your choice. This allows you to switch out plants to keep them colourful and seasonal.
Finally, you can now repaint your bicycle planter. There are two ways to do this, first, you can sand off the old paint, and then apply a coat of primer. Then, when the primer coat is dry, you can paint it with whatever colour you want.
Well, will you be transforming your old bicycle into a bicycle planter? If you can give an old bicycle a new life, imagine the possibilities with all that other ‘junk’ you’re thinking of throwing away!
We’re on the lookout for old bicycles, how about you?
Best Plants for a Bicycle Flower Planter by Season
Adding plants to a bicycle flower planter brings charm and personality to your outdoor space. But to keep it looking vibrant throughout the year, it’s important to choose flowers and greenery that match the changing seasons. Selecting the right plants ensures your bicycle flower planter stays lively, colorful, and low-maintenance no matter the weather.
Spring Selections
Spring is all about fresh color and soft blooms. Choose plants that wake up early and bloom steadily as the days grow longer. Pansies and violas are classic choices. Their compact size and cheerful faces make them perfect for front baskets. Snapdragons and alyssum also work well since they grow in tight bunches and release a gentle fragrance. These plants handle cool nights and mild days with ease, making them ideal for early spring bicycle flower planter displays.
Summer Favorites
Summer calls for flowers that can take the heat. Petunias are a top pick for this season because they’re hardy and available in many bright colors. Marigolds thrive in sunny spots and naturally repel pests. Geraniums are another favorite for their bold colors and bushy growth. They do well in containers and can tolerate some neglect. Adding trailing plants like sweet potato vine or calibrachoa can create a lush, cascading effect around the frame of the bicycle flower planter.
Fall Highlights
When temperatures begin to drop, switch to plants that offer rich hues and texture. Chrysanthemums bring classic fall colors like burgundy, orange, and gold. Ornamental kale or cabbage adds visual interest with its ruffled leaves and cool tones. If your bicycle flower planter is still in a sunny spot, you can mix in pansies for a second round of blooms. These fall options provide a cozy, seasonal look that fits in beautifully with pumpkins and harvest décor.
Winter Choices
Your planter doesn’t have to sit empty in winter. Opt for hardy evergreens like dwarf spruce or small boxwoods. Add interest with heather, which can bloom even in colder months, or with hellebores, also known as Christmas roses. Fill in any gaps with pinecones or weather-safe ornaments to create a winter scene. These plants give your bicycle flower planter life and color, even when the rest of the garden is resting.
Planning your plant choices around the seasons makes your bicycle flower planter a year-round garden feature.
Where to Place a Bicycle Flower Planter in Your Garden
Choosing the right spot for your bicycle flower planter is just as important as selecting the flowers themselves. Proper placement ensures your plants get enough light, stay protected from damage, and become a standout feature in your garden. A well-positioned bicycle flower planter can turn a simple yard into a charming and creative space.
Sunlight Matters
Most flowering plants need at least six hours of sunlight each day. Place your bicycle flower planter in a sunny location, especially if you’re growing petunias, marigolds, or geraniums. If you prefer shade-loving plants like impatiens or begonias, pick a partly shaded area with filtered light. Knowing the light needs of your plants will help you keep them blooming longer and looking healthy.
Make It a Focal Point
Treat your bicycle flower planter as garden art. Position it at the entrance to your garden, near a path, or beside a bench to create a focal point. It draws the eye and adds interest to spaces that might otherwise be overlooked. You can also pair it with a small bistro set or rustic garden furniture to build a cozy corner.
Avoid High-Traffic Areas
Keep your bicycle planter away from spots where people often walk or where kids and pets play. While it may be tempting to put it in the middle of your lawn, it’s better suited to the edges where it won’t get knocked over or damaged. Even with a support rod, bicycles can tip if placed on uneven or soft ground.
Consider Stability and Drainage
Choose level ground to prevent the planter from leaning or falling over. Soft soil might shift over time, especially after heavy rain. If you’re placing your bicycle flower planter on a patio or paved area, make sure the surface is flat and sturdy. Also, allow space underneath for water drainage to prevent puddles from forming around the bike tires.
Try Vertical Backdrops
Another great option is to place your bicycle flower planter against a fence, garden wall, or hedge. This gives the planter a visual anchor and can help support it in windy areas. A backdrop also makes your flowers stand out more, especially if the bicycle is painted in a bright or contrasting color.
With a little planning, your bicycle flower planter can become one of the most eye-catching features in your garden. Its placement can transform an ordinary space into something truly unique and inviting.
DIY Bicycle Flower Planter Gallery
Click on any image to start the lightbox display. Use your Esc key to close the lightbox. You can also view the images as a slideshow if you prefer 😎
Source: Our Fairfield Home and Garden
How to Weatherproof Your Bicycle Planter for Outdoor Use
A bicycle flower planter left outdoors faces sun, rain, wind, and sometimes frost. Without proper protection, metal parts can rust, wooden baskets may rot, and paint will fade. To keep your bicycle flower planter looking great all year, it’s important to weatherproof it before planting begins.
Clean and Prep the Surface
Start by thoroughly cleaning the entire bike. Remove any dirt, grease, or old paint using a wire brush or sandpaper. Focus on areas where rust may already be forming, especially around the chain, pedals, or spokes. A clean surface helps paint and sealants stick better and last longer.
Apply Rust Protection
If your bicycle is made of metal, apply a rust-inhibiting primer after sanding. This adds a protective base layer that blocks moisture from reaching the metal. Let it dry completely before painting. For added durability, use a clear rust-proof sealant over the paint to create a weather-resistant shield. These products come in spray or brush-on forms and help prevent flaking, chipping, or corrosion.
Choose Outdoor-Safe Paint
Use exterior-grade spray paint or enamel paint designed for metal surfaces. These types resist fading from UV exposure and hold up better under moisture. If you prefer a more artistic finish, consider chalk paint topped with a waterproof sealant. Choose bright or pastel colors to make your bicycle flower planter pop in the garden.
Seal Wooden Parts and Baskets
If your planter includes wood baskets or crates, treat them with an outdoor wood sealer or marine-grade varnish. These sealers protect the wood from rain and sun damage while preventing mold and mildew. For extra protection, line the inside of the baskets with plastic or coconut coir liners before adding soil.
Stabilize the Frame
A weatherproofed planter also needs to be secure. Use a metal rod or garden stake attached to the frame to keep the bike upright. You can even anchor it slightly into the soil using concrete blocks or weighted bases. This helps prevent tipping during storms or strong winds.
Cover During Harsh Weather
During winter or heavy rain, cover your bicycle flower planter with a waterproof tarp or move it to a sheltered area like a porch. This simple step extends its lifespan and keeps paint and plants safe from the elements.
With a little effort, your bicycle flower planter can survive all seasons and continue to add charm and color to your garden without fading or falling apart.
Conclusion
A bicycle flower planter brings nostalgic charm and creative flair to any garden space. It’s a simple way to upcycle while adding color and personality outdoors. With the right plants and care, it can be a standout feature all year round.
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