Can You Recycle Planting Pots in Spokane?

If you are an avid gardener or simply enjoy growing plants, you probably have accumulated several planting pots over time. While it’s great to reuse them for different plants, you may eventually end up with ones that you no longer need or want. Instead of simply throwing them away, you may wonder if you can recycle them in Spokane. In this article, we will discuss the answer to this question, as well as some tips for eco-friendly gardening.

Recycling Planting Pots in Spokane

In Spokane, the answer to whether you can recycle planting pots depends on the type of material they’re made of. According to Spokane’s Solid Waste Department, plastic pots and trays labeled with a recycling symbol and a “1” or “2” can be recycled in your curbside cart or at a recycling drop-off location.

However, not all plastic pots are created equal. If your pots are labeled with a “6” or “7”, they cannot be recycled in Spokane’s curbside program, and recycling them may not be worth the cost and effort. In this case, it’s best to find other ways to reuse them, such as using them for storage or crafts.

When recycling plastic pots and trays, be sure to rinse them clean of any soil or debris. You should also remove any metal clips or labels attached to them, as these can contaminate the recycling process.

Eco-Friendly Gardening Tips

Aside from recycling planting pots, there are other ways to make your gardening practices more eco-friendly. Here are a few tips:

Use organic soil and fertilizers: Avoid chemical-based products that can harm the environment and your plants. Opt for organic options instead.

Compost your organic waste: Instead of throwing away food scraps or dead plants, create a compost pile to turn them into nutrient-rich soil for your garden.

Save water: Install a rain barrel to collect rainwater and use it for watering your plants. You can also use a drip irrigation system to minimize water waste.

Choose native plants: Plants that are native to your region are more likely to thrive in your climate and require less water and maintenance.

Avoid pesticides: Pesticides can harm beneficial insects and contaminate soil and water. Instead, use natural pest control methods like companion planting or handpicking pests.

By adopting these practices, you can minimize your environmental impact while still enjoying the beauty of your garden.

Conclusion

If you are wondering if you can recycle planting pots in Spokane, the answer is yes, but with a few caveats. Plastic pots labeled with a “1” or “2” can be recycled in Spokane’s curbside program or drop-off locations, but other types of plastic pots may not be worth recycling. To make your gardening practices more eco-friendly, consider using organic soil and fertilizers, composting your organic waste, saving water, choosing native plants, and avoiding pesticides.

With these tips, you can create your dream garden without harming the environment.