As a proud plant parent and décor enthusiast, I’ve discovered the unique magic that plants bring to any living space. They are more than just green additions to our homes; they are living, breathing décor elements that create a refreshing, calming and visually appealing atmosphere. Moreover, plants are not just for gardens or outdoor spaces.
They can flourish indoors and offer a myriad of possibilities to style and spruce up your interiors. Today, I’ll be sharing with you 15 creative ways I use plants for décor.
1. Hanging Planters
Hanging planters are an excellent way to add a touch of greenery without compromising floor space. They are particularly useful in smaller rooms or apartments where every inch counts. I often hang them in corners or in front of windows to take advantage of natural light.
A trailing plant like the Pothos or Spider Plant can create a stunning waterfall effect. Alternatively, a bunch of air plants suspended in geometric glass terrariums can create a modern, minimalist look. The key is to choose planters that complement your overall décor and plants that thrive in your home’s lighting conditions.
2. Kitchen Herb Garden
Having a kitchen herb garden is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also practical. It brings a pop of green to your kitchen and gives you fresh herbs to cook with. I have a small windowsill herb garden with pots of basil, mint, rosemary, and thyme.
You can use cute ceramic pots or repurpose old cans for a more rustic look. Make sure to place the herbs in a spot that gets plenty of sun. If your kitchen doesn’t get much natural light, consider herbs that can tolerate lower light conditions like parsley and chives.
3. Plant Shelves
Plant shelves are a fantastic way to showcase your plant collection and create a charming green nook. I have a dedicated wall in my living room with floating shelves filled with a variety of plants like Snake plant, ZZ plant, and different types of succulents.
You can play with the arrangement of plants and pots to create a more dynamic look. Consider mixing different pot styles, sizes and colors. You can also add some non-plant items like small figurines, books, or candles to break up the greenery.
4. Terrariums
Terrariums are miniature indoor gardens enclosed in glass. They are a beautiful and low-maintenance way to bring a bit of nature indoors. I have a couple of terrariums on my coffee table and on my office desk.
You can make your own terrarium using a glass container, pebbles, activated charcoal, potting soil, and small plants. Terrariums are perfect for small plants like mosses, ferns, and succulents. You can also add miniature figurines for a whimsical touch.
5. Bathroom Plants
Bathrooms can be challenging spaces to decorate, but plants can transform them into a relaxing, spa-like retreat. I have a few moisture-loving plants in my bathroom, like Boston Fern and Peace Lily. The steam from the shower creates a humid environment that these plants love.
Remember to choose plants that can tolerate low light and high humidity. You can place them on the counter, hang them from the ceiling, or even place them on the edge of the bathtub.
6. Large Indoor Trees
Large indoor trees can make a powerful statement and bring a sense of grandeur to your living space. I have a Fiddle Leaf Fig in my living room and a Madagascar Dragon Tree in my home office. Both plants are hardy and can tolerate indoor conditions well.
Remember to place these trees in a spot that gets plenty of indirect light. They also need a large, stable pot to support their growth. Regular pruning can help maintain their size and shape.
7. Plant Stand Display
A plant stand display is a stylish way to showcase your plants at different heights. I have a tiered plant stand in my bedroom with a mix of plants like English Ivy, Chinese Money Plant, and different types of cacti.
The key to a beautiful plant stand display is variety. Use plants of different heights, textures, and colors. You can also mix in some trailing plants for a cascading effect.
8. Window Sill Plants
Window sills make a perfect home for sun-loving plants. I have a row of succulents on my kitchen window sill. They add a lovely touch of green and thrive in the abundant sunlight.
You can also try flowering plants like African Violets or herbs like basil and parsley. Just make sure to rotate the plants regularly so they get even sunlight.
9. Table Centerpiece
A plant can make a beautiful, living table centerpiece. I often use a large, lush Peace Lily or a colorful Bromeliad as a centerpiece on my dining table.
Consider the size and shape of the table when choosing a plant. A small, round table might look best with a single, medium-sized plant, while a long, rectangular table could accommodate a row of small plants.
10. Plant Wall
A plant wall is a stunning way to bring the outdoors in. I have a vertical garden in my hallway with a mix of ferns, pothos, and philodendrons. It’s a real conversation starter!
Creating a plant wall can be a bit of a project. You’ll need a vertical surface, a way to attach the plants (like a grid of pockets or shelves), and a watering system. But the end result is worth the effort.
11. Mini Indoor Greenhouse
A mini indoor greenhouse can be a beautiful and functional addition to your home. I have a small glass greenhouse on my coffee table with a collection of cacti and succulents.
You can find mini greenhouses at garden centers or online. They’re perfect for plants that need a humid environment, like ferns and tropical plants.
12. Plants in Unexpected Places
Plants can bring life to unexpected places in your home. I have a small Snake Plant on a shelf in my laundry room and a trailing Pothos in my bookcase.
Consider spots like the top of the fridge, on a staircase landing, or even in a closet with a grow light. Just make sure the plants get enough light and water.
13. Grouping Plants Together
Grouping plants together can create a lush, jungle-like effect. I have a corner in my living room with a group of plants of different heights and textures.
You can group plants on a table, on the floor, or on a plant stand. Try to mix and match different types of plants for a more dynamic look.
14. Using Plants as Room Dividers
Large plants or a group of plants can act as a natural room divider. I use a tall Monstera Deliciosa and a few Snake Plants to separate my living room from my dining area.
Make sure to use plants that are tall enough to create a sense of separation. You can also use a plant stand or a shelf to elevate smaller plants.
15. Incorporating Plants into Holiday Decor
Plants can be a part of your holiday décor. I often decorate my indoor trees with fairy lights for Christmas, and I use pumpkins and colorful leaves among my plants for fall décor.
You can also decorate your plants with seasonal ornaments or use plants like Poinsettias or Easter Lilies that are associated with specific holidays. Just make sure any decorations don’t harm the plants.