Upcycle a Sandbox Into a Kid-Friendly Garden

They may have outgrown their sandbox, but you can still reap the benefits of its perfect size and shape. Here's what you'll need: BPA-free sandbox, pavers (optional), gravel, weed barrier fabric (cut to fit interior of sandbox), potting soil, soil supplements (optional), assorted edible starter plants with shallow root systems, utility knife, drill and 5/8-inch bit, garden trowel, garden gloves, kid-sized garden tools

Determine the location of your new garden based on sunlight. Make sure it has enough sun or shade for the plants you intend to grow. Partial shade is usually best for many container-friendly edibles. Move the emptied sandbox into place, then layer a few pavers underneath the box to elevate it and ensure optimum drainage.

Good drainage keeps plants healthier and staves off root rot. Once you've added pavers and adjusted them so the bottom of the sandbox is level, add several drainage holes using a drill and large bit. Make a hole every 6-8 inches in the bottom of the sandbox.

Cut weed barrier fabric to size and lay down in the sandbox so the bottom and sides are covered. This will help create a barrier and discourage any weeds attempting to make their way into the garden through the drainage holes.