Decorating your home with plants doesn’t have to mean spending money on trendy planters, designer shelves, or new furniture. With a little imagination and what you already have at home, you can showcase your plants in ways that are beautiful, space-saving, and totally cost-free.
In this guide, you’ll find practical and creative ideas to display your indoor plants using repurposed items, everyday tools, and DIY solutions — all while adding charm and greenery to your space.
Why Display Plants Creatively?
Plant displays can do more than just hold your greenery — they can:
- Add personality and warmth to your home
- Maximize small spaces
- Create focal points or accents in different rooms
- Keep plants healthy by improving light exposure and airflow
The good news? You don’t need to buy anything new to make it happen.
1. Use Old Jars and Glasses as Mini Planters
Mason jars, pickle jars, drinking glasses, or even old mugs are perfect for small plants.
How to Use:
- Add pebbles or gravel at the bottom for drainage.
- Fill with potting mix or use for water propagation.
- Arrange in windowsills, shelves, or tables.
Great for: Pothos cuttings, herbs, baby succulents, or green onion regrowth.
2. Hang Plants Using Old T-Shirts or Fabric
Turn unused fabric into a DIY plant hanger in just a few minutes — no macramé skills needed.
Try This:
- Cut an old T-shirt into long strips.
- Tie a few knots to form a cradle.
- Hang from a curtain rod, ceiling hook, or wall bracket.
Hang over windows or in corners to make use of vertical space.
3. Repurpose a Bookshelf or Ladder
Instead of buying a plant shelf, use an old ladder, bookshelf, or crate.
Setup Tips:
- Place plants at different levels for visual interest.
- Combine trailing and upright plants.
- Use books or boxes to vary height and create dimension.
This turns even a tiny wall into a beautiful green nook.
4. Turn Kitchen Utensils into Planters
Old kitchenware can become creative pots:
- Colanders: Already have drainage holes!
- Teapots and cups: Add charm and personality.
- Tin cans: Paint or wrap in fabric for an upgraded look.
Group them on a counter, windowsill, or dining table centerpiece.
5. Create a Hanging Garden with String and Hooks
If you have spare wall hooks or ceiling hangers, use twine or string to suspend your plants.
What to Hang:
- Lightweight pots or containers
- Bottles with cuttings
- Hanging baskets made from kitchen bowls or woven fabric
Ideal for freeing up floor space and adding life to blank walls.
6. Use Wooden Crates or Drawers
Stack or mount old drawers or fruit crates to build wall-mounted or freestanding displays.
Options:
- Hang crates like shelves.
- Stack vertically to create a mini plant tower.
- Line with fabric or plastic for extra style.
Great for rustic, farmhouse, or cottagecore-inspired homes.
7. Display Plants on Window Sills with DIY Trays
Make a cozy green display using shallow trays, plates, or cookie sheets.
How to Do It:
- Line up small pots or jars with herbs or succulents.
- Add pebbles or moss around the base for a decorative touch.
- Use a kitchen drying rack or old baking tray as a base.
Perfect for maximizing light from south-facing windows.
8. Reuse Cardboard Boxes as Planter Covers
You don’t have to look at ugly nursery pots — just cover them with something more appealing.
How to Use:
- Cut cardboard boxes to fit around your pots.
- Wrap with fabric, paper, newspaper, or brown kraft paper.
- Secure with string or ribbon.
This trick instantly elevates the aesthetic — no extra cost required.
9. Build a Wall Garden with Cloth Shoe Organizers
Got a shoe rack with pockets? You’ve got a vertical garden.
How to Use:
- Fill each pocket with soil.
- Insert a small plant or herb.
- Hang near a bright window or balcony door.
It’s space-saving, practical, and surprisingly stylish.
10. Repurpose Wooden Pallets as Plant Shelves
A single pallet can be turned into a plant stand, vertical planter, or wall display.
Ideas:
- Stand it against the wall with containers in the gaps.
- Mount it horizontally and attach small planters.
- Paint or decorate to match your home style.
Bonus: Pallets are often available for free from local stores or warehouses.
Tips to Elevate Your Plant Display (Free & Easy)
- Group plants by color or size to create harmony.
- Mix textures — glossy leaves, fuzzy succulents, flowering blooms.
- Add mirrors behind plants to reflect light and make the space feel bigger.
- Use natural elements like stones, shells, or driftwood as decor accents.
- Switch things up regularly to refresh the space without buying anything.
Final Thought: Green Style Doesn’t Need a Price Tag
Bringing plants indoors should be joyful, not stressful. You don’t need to shop for fancy pots or décor — your home is already full of possibilities. With a little repurposing, rearranging, and imagination, you can create stunning indoor plant displays that reflect your style while staying within your budget.
Your creativity is your greatest tool — and your plants will love the attention.