The next time you are at the hardware store buying paint, you may want to pick up a few extra paint sticks. Making your own plant markers is a great way to add a little personality to your garden. Simply brush on a coat of chalkboard paint, and let the paint dry {about 1 hour}. Then use a piece of chalk {or chalk markers} to write the names of the vegetables you’ve planted in your garden. Before you know it you’ll have some {free} re-usable plant markers for you garden.
When the growing season is over simple wipe the chalk off the paint sticks, and store them away for next year.
*These chalkboard plant markers would make a great rainy day project for kids. Plus I bet grandma would love a set or two for her garden.
I’ve tried several different brands of chalkboard paint over the years and Rust-Oleum Chalkboard Brush-On is my favorite. You might be able to find it in your local hardware store, but if not, Amazon has it for $14.70.
Another great thing to have on hand are Chalk Ink Markers. Amazon has them listed at $24.21, but you can probably find them for less at the craft store with a coupon.
*Amazon prices are subject to change at anytime.
Kendra says
I love this idea but my only concern would be the lovely Seattle Downpours that tend to frequent this area 🙂 Have you tested the chalk ink outdoors at all to see if it can survive a rain spell?
Michael’s has the Chalk Ink Markers as well, I bought a 4 pack of white with a 40% coupon a couple months ago. I think they were about $5 after the coupon.
Rain says
You could also use a china marker or grease pencil. It won’t wash off in the rain, but will come off easily with baby oil.
cheers!
Megan says
Love the idea! So cute! But, won’t the sprinkler wash off the plant names?
Mavis says
Hmmm. My neighbor is using these in her garden bed and she has those low drip hose things in her beds… No sprinklers. But you have a good point. Maybe just use paint instead of chalk. 🙂
Tracy says
Great idea. We may do these in our garden plot (19′ x 30′) which we rent in town. We would have to be careful of them getting wet in the rain…so I think we’d just paint with regular paint…we’d probably plant the same veggies next year anyway. So glad I found your site!
Mavis says
I think that would work great! 🙂
Christina says
I did this but used paint markers and they are water proof so no worries about washing off in the rain!!