Posted June 12, 2009

Q: Dear Charlie,

Can I recycle the plastic plant pots, trays and containers that new plants come in?

Mack

A: Dear Mack,

Gardeners in Shoreline cannot recycle plastic plant pots curbside, but several Shoreline businesses accept containers for recycling. Some nurseries will re-use these pots and trays -- making your gardening practices even "greener."

Shoreline Goodwill Store
14500 15th Ave NE
(206) 631-8454
Accepts plastic plant pots, no requirements
 
Shoreline Deseret Industries
17935 Aurora Ave N
(206) 542-9447
Plant pots must be clean and not broken
 
Fred Meyer
18325 Aurora Ave N
(206) 546-0720
Drop off empty pots behind the store on the metal racks
 
Kruckeberg Botanic Garden
20312 15th Ave NW
(206) 546-1281
Mar. 22 – Sept. 22: Friday – Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Remainder of the year: Friday – Sunday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Drop off empty pots during open hours

Recyclable nursery pots include square and round pots and seedling trays of all colors. Be sure to give them a good shake, as loose dirt can contaminate loads of recyclables.

Terra cotta pots are not recyclable. Used terra cotta pots can be donated at second hand or Goodwill shops. Broken terra cotta belongs in the garbage.

More Q + A for Reducing Your Garbage

Charlie, the son of CleanScapes' founder, is here to answer all your questions about what to recycle and compost and how to responsibly get rid of scary things like computers or batteries. Read what others have asked below, and if you have a question, Ask Charlie!