Mike,
Just in case you didn't know, Lowes is a recycle center for plastic pots and plant containers. I take mine there all the time - and sometimes I just "trade" in the ones I brought for the size I need. It is a win-win - you get the pots you need and Lowes doesn't have to handle the recycling. The collecting rack is usually near the back or the side-back of the Garden Center. And it is usually one of those rolling racks with multiple shelves. I feel pretty sure that you could have whatever pots you want from the recycle rack, but maybe double check with a clerk. And if you are buying soil or something, I would definitely think they wouldn't mind you taking some of the recycle pots. The manager at mine never minds at all if I take some.
Hope this helps,
Carol
