While many of us view gardening as a stress-reliever, some tasks will always feel a little frustrating. I love nothing more than spending a sunny day tending to my plants, but the prospect of repotting is usually accompanied by at least a touch of dread.
The solution? A potting bench, of course – but until now, I've resisted purchasing one because I just don't have the space in my tiny backyard. However, it looks like that's about to change thanks to Lidl's Parkside wooden potting bench, which just might be the perfect antidote to all my gardening woes.
At $39.99, I'll admit that this potting bench seems too good to be true, but it's a small-space savior: at just under 30 inches in length, it's ideal for even the most narrow areas, and it also provides plenty of brilliant backyard storage ideas.
Featuring a wooden frame, a galvanized metal work surface, and metal-capped legs, this potting bench is the ultimate addition to your gardening setup. It's handsome, sturdy, and hard-wearing.
The Advantages of a Potting Bench
Any gardener will be quick to sing the praises of the humble potting bench, but for those of us with small gardens, finding the right option can be tricky.
Too wide, and a potting bench can take up valuable space in your yard – and create a less-than-ideal layout which feels clunky and cluttered.
Too small, however, and you'll still find yourself struggling to tackle simple gardening tasks without making a mess. I might dread repotting my plants, but a cramped potting bench can't exactly solve the problem.
This is why Lidl's potting bench caught my eye. It's compact enough to fit into any corner of your garden, patio or deck, but it's still kitted out with plenty of handy storage features.
Two shelves will safely hold all your gardening supplies, from spare planters to tools and bags of soil. Plus, a set of metal hooks provides further space to store your essentials.
(I recently treated myself to a new canvas garden apron from Terrain, and I can't wait to hang it proudly from my potting bench.)
I was skeptical at first: Lidl's potting bench might look impressive, but at less than $40, it's easy to wonder whether it's really a sound investment.
I've been considering a few premium options for a while, from West Elm's Portside potting station to Terrain's teak work station – and I was doubtful that something so budget-friendly could compare.
Yet with its study wooden frame and metal top, it seems like this particular potting bench really is built to last. It's both weather- and UV-resistant, and the wood has been pre-treated with a water-based varnish to prevent it from being degraded by harsh weather.
Keeping a Yard Organized
Whether I'm seeding, repotting, or mixing compost, I know that a potting bench will revolutionize my setup – and banish any frustration that I'd usually associate with tasks like these.
I've spent years relying on potting mats – We the Wild's reusable potting mat is my current favorite – but I just can't beat the convenience of a bench. It saves me from spending hours hunched over on my patio, and it's the perfect way to keep all my tools contained.
Small backyards demand a certain commitment to tidiness, after all, and it doesn't take long for my space to be overrun by gardening supplies. With a potting bench that doubles as storage, I can ensure that everything remains neat and organized.
With limited space to work with, I have to think carefully about what I add to my yard, but I really have been won over by the idea of a potting bench. And as spring arrives and I spend all my spare time gardening, I know I won't regret it.
Shop More Potting Bench Options
IKEA's Nammaro Open Kitchen Unit serves as both a hosting station and a potting bench. It's the perfect way to get your garden ready for the warmer weather.
Featuring shelves, hooks, a handy drawer and even a removable plastic sink, this potting station just might be every gardener's dream.
This stylish potting bench is complete with a sliding worktop which reveals plenty of hidden storage and a sink area. It's sleek but practical.
Now that winter is officially over, there's no better time to get your garden in order – and if you're looking for more tips, we asked experts exactly how to organize a yard for summer.
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