Gardener Shares 5 Common Patio Items That Can Be Found Way Cheaper at the Thrift Store
If you've been stressed about what and how you're going to fill your garden space this summer, it may actually be easier-and more affordable-than you think.
Instead of heading to your local garden center or other homewares store, you may want to try checking your local thrift store or secondhand shop first.
Gardener and thrifter Lindsey Sopcak of @therurallegend recently shared five things she says you can almost always find at the thrift store and transform them into luxe, magazine-worthy outdoor decor. Here's what she recommends.
1. Plant Stands, Planters and Wall Pockets
All of the above can easily cost you a fortune at a major store, but they can usually be found at the thrift store for cheap.
If what you find may not be totally your style, you can easily hand paint or spray paint anything you find to match your specific aesthetic and look for a one-of-a-kind setup.
2. Wall Candleholders or Candelabra
While this old-school home decor item may not immediately scream "garden-ready," Sopcak says that they are perfect as holders for mini terra cotta pots filled with succulents, flowers or herbs.
As with the plant stands and planters, if you find these items aren't quite your vibe, you can spray paint them. For outdoor use, you could either hang them along a wall, a fence or simply place them on the ground before adding your pots.
Related: Backyard Gardeners Are Loving This DIY Dollar Tree Strawberry Planter
3. Trellises and Lanterns
While these items are definitely already known for their appearances in gardens and outdoor spaces, people can quickly forget how expensive they can be.
If you're lucky enough to come across these finds at the thrift store, you may pay "pennies" compared to what you would at a major box office store, according to Sopcak. Plus, they're super pretty and useful in filling up outdoor spaces and setting the tone for your yard or garden area.
4. Heavy Floorlamps
This item may require a little more creativity and a DIY mindset, as Sopcak used these tall, freestanding lamps as a base for a pedestal planter.
Lamps can usually be found in abundance at thrift stores, so if you manage to find a heavy, tall one you like, you can actually take off the top part, glue a shallow, wire planter to it, and fill it with trailing or vining plants to create an ultra chic look.
5. Votive Holders
Whether you find tabletop or hanging versions, votive holders can be perfect to use for a DIY solar light situation.
Votive holders, which usually hold candles, can be perfect for placing small solar lights inside of, and they look great as side table "lamps" or hanging as solar chandeliers.
Whether you're looking to find new ways to decorate your outdoor space or just want an excuse to go thrifting (no judgment here), these five items and DIY ideas are perfect to keep in mind for your next shopping trip. Not only will they save your wallet, but there's also a chance they'll completely transform your backyard space for the better.
Related: Gardeners Are Loving These 10 Foliage Plants for a Lush, Polished Garden
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This story was originally published May 27, 2026 at 8:30 AM.