My DIY Succulent Wall Planter: A Step-by-Step Guide
Looking to bring life to your bare walls? Succulents offer a perfect solution.
These small, hardy plants have become popular choices for vertical gardens, turning plain walls into living artwork without taking up floor space.
I wanted a plant display that would fit my small apartment but couldn’t find affordable options in stores.
After some research and trial-and-error, I created my own wall planter that looks great and keeps my plants healthy.
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to make your own succulent wall planter.
You’ll find out which materials work best and won’t break the bank, how to build the frame and secure it properly, plus tips for planting and maintaining your succulents.
You don’t need special skills or expensive tools. I’ve tested these steps in my own home, and they work. Even if you’ve never done a DIY project before, you can create this beautiful plant display in just one afternoon.
Step-by-Step Guide: DIY Succulent Wall Planter
Material List for DIY Succulent Wall Planter
| Category | Materials/Tools |
|---|---|
| Wood Materials | – Wooden frame or shadow box (size of your choice) |
| – Cedar fence posts or other wood for trim | |
| – Backing board (plywood or similar material) | |
| Tools | – Nail gun or hammer and nails |
| – Power drill with drill bits (optional for pilot holes) | |
| – Metal pliers | |
| – Circular saw (optional, for metal cutting) | |
| – Staple gun | |
| Accessories | – Chicken wire or mesh with small holes |
| – Heavy-duty clamps | |
| – Wood glue | |
| – Wood putty (optional, pink-to-natural preferred for beginners) | |
| – Weed liner (for lining the base) | |
| – Soil (succulent-specific or well-draining mix) | |
| – Succulents (variety of shapes and sizes) | |
| – Decorative moss or foam for gaps (optional) | |
| – Adhesive (Gorilla super glue or similar) | |
| Finishing Products | – Sandpaper or sanding block |
| – Exterior-grade sealant or clear satin finish | |
| – Paint or stain (optional) |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 Build the Frame
- Measure and cut the backing board and wood strips for the sides.
- Assemble the frame using wood glue and secure it with nails or a nail gun. Ensure sides are flush and sturdy.
Step 2 Attach Chicken Wire and Liner
- Stretch chicken wire across the front of the frame and staple it securely. Adjust wire holes for succulents if necessary.
- Line the inside of the frame with weed liner to hold the soil in place.
Step 3 Prepare the Wood Surface
- Sand all wood surfaces smooth and remove debris with a cloth.
- Apply an exterior-grade sealant to protect the frame, especially for outdoor use. Let it dry completely.
Step 4 Fill with Soil and Arrange Succulents
- Fill the frame with succulent soil, leaving it slightly mounded.
- Insert succulents through the chicken wire, securing roots with additional soil. Arrange them creatively, using decorative moss for gaps.
Step 5 Secure and Settle
- Ensure succulents are firmly in place by gently packing soil around their roots.
- Let the planter sit flat for 2-3 weeks to allow roots to settle and stabilize.
Step 6 Mount the Planter
- Use appropriate mounting hardware, like a cleat system or pre-made hangers, based on weight and wall type.
- Hang securely, ensuring the frame is level.
Step 7 Add Final Touches
- Incorporate decorative elements like moss, foam, or a painted word/quote on the frame.
- Place the planter in its intended space and enjoy your living decor!
How to Care for Your Succulent Wall Planter
Let me share what I’ve learned about keeping wall-mounted succulents happy and healthy.
Water with care: Succulents need less water than you might think. I water my wall planter once every 7-10 days in summer, and less often in winter. Simply mist the soil until it’s slightly damp, not soaked. Too much water can harm your plants.
Finding the right spot: Your succulents will do best in bright light. I put mine near a south-facing window. But watch out – if the leaves start turning brown, the light might be too strong. Move the planter a few feet away from the window.
Here’s what to watch for:
Yellow, mushy leaves mean too much water. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again.
Wrinkled leaves show your plants are thirsty. Try watering a bit more often.
Tiny bugs on the leaves? Wipe them off with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab.
Quick tip: Check the soil moisture by sticking a wooden toothpick into it. If soil sticks to the toothpick, wait before watering.
Remember, these tough little plants can bounce back from most problems. Just pay attention to how they look, and they’ll tell you what they need.
Benefits of a DIY Succulent Wall Planter
- Save valuable floor space: Wall planters make smart use of vertical space, perfect for small homes and apartments. They turn unused wall areas into green spaces that catch the eye.
- Add natural charm: Plants bring warmth to any room. Succulents come in many shapes, sizes, and shades of green, creating a living piece of art on your wall.
- Keep it simple: These plants store water in their leaves, so they need little attention. You won’t have to worry about daily care or complex maintenance routines.
- Help the environment: Succulents clean indoor air naturally. Plus, when you make your own planter, you reduce waste by choosing exactly what you need.
- Feel proud: Building something with your hands feels great. Every time you look at your wall planter, you’ll remember: “I made that.” It’s a story you can share with friends.
- Save money: Store-bought wall planters can cost hundreds. Making your own lets you create the perfect size and style for much less.
Wrapping It Up
Creating your own succulent wall planter brings a fresh look to your space while giving you a fun weekend project. As we’ve seen, you only need basic materials and simple steps to build something beautiful.
Remember the key points: choose the right spot with good light, water sparingly, and watch how your plants respond. These simple habits will keep your living wall healthy for years.
I’d love to hear how your project turns out. Share a photo of your creation in the comments below, or ask any questions you have. Your experience might help others starting their own plant wall projects.
Want to learn more about indoor gardening? Check out my guide on matching plants to different rooms in your home. Until then, happy planting, and enjoy watching your wall garden grow!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Succulents Prefer Deep or Shallow Pots?
Succulents thrive in shallow pots because their roots grow close to the surface. A wide, shallow container helps prevent water buildup and root rot.
How to Plant Succulents in A Vertical Planter?
Fill your vertical planter with cactus soil mix. Make holes for each plant, place them gently, and add more soil around the roots. Wait a week before watering.
Should You Put Rocks in Succulent Planter?
Yes, add a layer of rocks at the bottom of your planter. They create space for water to drain away from roots, stopping root rot.
How Do You Water a Succulent Wall?
Check the soil with your finger. Only water when completely dry. Pour water until it runs through the drainage holes, then wait until soil dries before watering again.
