An outdoor space is a continuous source of joy and effort, but when you come across a creative use for yard waste it can be such an occasion for celebration! Especially at this transitional time of year when keeping up with landscaping feels like a full time job.
You probably know about reusing sticks, pine cones, leaves, and brush as unique home décor items or giveaways, but what does that actually mean? Is it realistic to tote a few branches and a pinecone inside and put them on the table to call it art? Well, probably not; especially when these items just end up looking like a big mess in your home.
We needed a little more structure, inspiration, and flair. Luckily, we found these fantastic ideas to reuse and repurpose the items nature drops into your outdoor space.
Instead of just displaying sticks and leaves as décor, try sprucing them up with some (non-VOC) metallic paint in silver or gold or a flat matte finish in white. The paint adds a much needed drama to the natural materials and makes them look like something purchased as designer home décor. We suggest arranging your new items in a stylish vase or container or mounting them on a wall or a mantle as appropriate.
Or think even bigger and construct a fence or trellis out of the materials you were about to leave on the curb for trash pickup.
- First lay out the pieces of wood on your driveway or sidewalk, arranging them in a pattern you like.
- Tie the large branches together with wire (find some in a craft store) or try nailing them together for a stronger structure.
- Use small branches for support, tying them into place last.
- Finally, pick up the secured form and plant it firmly into the ground where you’d like to display it. You might have to be creative about securing the branches together and creating a permanent structure, but the end result will be well worth it.
If reusing yard waste as décor isn’t an option, consider using it to keep your outdoor space healthy and vibrant. Mix leaves and grass clippings together, then allow them to decompose. Use the resulting compost to mix or spread into landscape or garden beds as a free, safe and slow-release fertilizer.
If you only have minimal yard waste you can reuse it as brown material for your urban compost.
What are you doing with yard waste this year? Send your photos and creative ideas to us on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest.