Want to add plants to your home but have no floor space? You need a DIY hanging planter.
This article shows you 41 different ways to make hanging planters at home. I’ll walk you through every step.
What you’ll find here:
- Upcycled planters from household items
- Stylish macramé designs
- Rustic wood projects
- Multi-tier vertical gardens
I’ve made every mistake possible. Now I know what works and what doesn’t. You’ll get proven methods that actually hold plants safely. No fancy tools required.
Most projects use things you already own. Mason jars, tin cans, old baskets – they all become beautiful planters. Ready to transform your empty walls into green spaces? Let’s start hanging those plants.
What Kind of DIY Hanging Planter Should You Make?
Before you start cutting and crafting, think about where your planter will live.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Planters
Indoor planters need to be gentler on your walls and ceilings. They also need good drainage to protect your floors. Outdoor planters can be heavier and bolder, but wind becomes your biggest challenge here. The materials you choose matter too.
Plastic works great outdoors and handles weather well. Wood needs weather protection outside or it will rot quickly. Metal can rust if not sealed properly, so choose stainless steel or apply protective coatings.
Best Plants for Hanging Planters
Great hanging plants include pothos which are super easy to grow, spider plants that make baby plants, and strings of pearls that look amazing cascading down. Herbs like basil and mint work perfectly too, along with small succulents.
Skip these plants though – large heavy plants will break your hangers, plants that need deep soil won’t thrive in shallow containers, and anything that grows really tall will become unmanageable quickly.
Mounting Options
You have three main ways to hang your planters. Ceiling hooks work best for lightweight planters, but make sure you hit a ceiling joist or use proper anchors for safety.
Wall brackets handle heavier planters and they’re easier to install too. Command strips work for very light planters only, so don’t push their weight limits or you’ll damage your walls.
Planter Styles for Every Decor
Match your planter to your style. Modern homes look best with clean lines and neutral colors. Boho spaces shine with macramé and natural textures. Farmhouse style calls for wood, metal, and rustic finishes. Kids’ rooms work perfectly with bright colors and fun shapes.
Tools & Supplies You Might Need
Here’s what I keep in my DIY toolkit:
Basic tools:
- Drill with bits
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun
- Measuring tape
- Pencil for marking
Hanging supplies:
- Strong rope or cord
- Chain (for heavier planters)
- S-hooks
- Carabiners
- Eye screws
Planting supplies:
- Potting soil
- Small stones for drainage
- Plastic liner (to protect surfaces)
Everyday Upcycled Hanging Planters
Time to raid your recycling bin. These projects cost almost nothing.
1. Mason Jar Hanging Planter
Mason jars are my go-to starter project because they’re nearly impossible to mess up. These classic containers create beautiful rustic planters that work anywhere in your home.
Quick how-to: Drill drainage holes in the lid, thread wire through the screw holes, twist into hanging loops, and plant your favorite herbs or trailing plants.
I’ve made dozens of these over the years – they’re perfect for beginners and always turn out gorgeous.
2. Tin Can Hanging Herb Planter
Soup cans transform into perfect herb gardens that smell amazing in your kitchen. This zero-waste project gives old cans new life while growing fresh ingredients for your meals.
Quick how-to: Clean the can thoroughly, file sharp edges, drill drainage holes, wrap with rope using hot glue, and create hanging loops at the top.
This was actually my first hanging planter project – now I save every soup can because they work so well for herbs.
3. Colander Flower Basket Planter
Old colanders already have built-in drainage, making them genius ready-made planters. The holes create perfect growing conditions while the metal handles make hanging simple.
Quick how-to: Line with coconut fiber or moss to contain soil, add potting mix and trailing flowers, then hang using existing handles or thread rope through for custom styling.
I discovered this trick when my grandmother’s old colander was too worn for cooking – now it’s her most complimented planter.
4. Recycled Plastic Bottle Hanger
Plastic bottles create clever self-watering planters that are perfect for propagating plant cuttings. The upside-down design naturally creates a water reservoir system.
Quick how-to: Cut the bottle in half, flip the top section upside down, remove cap, thread string through cap hole for hanging, and use the narrow neck as a water reservoir.
I use these for all my plant propagation now – they’re free, effective, and my success rate with cuttings has doubled.
5. Old Teacup Hanging Planter
Vintage teacups become charming mini planters that add whimsical character to any space. These tiny vessels are perfect for air plants or small succulents that don’t need much soil.
Quick how-to: Drill a small hole near the rim, thread thin wire through to create hanging loops, skip drainage if using air plants, or add a tiny drainage hole for soil plants.
My collection started with my grandmother’s chipped teacups – now guests always ask about these adorable hanging gardens.
6. Hanging Planter from an Empty Paint Can
Paint cans are incredibly durable and weather-resistant, making them ideal for heavy-duty outdoor hanging gardens. Their sturdy construction handles wind and weather like champions.
Quick how-to: Clean thoroughly with soap, sand lightly if painting, drill drainage holes in the bottom, use existing handles or add rope through punched rim holes.
After renovating my deck, I had six empty paint cans – they’ve become my most reliable outdoor planters for three years running.
7. Wicker Basket with Rope Hanger
Thrift store baskets get new life as rustic hanging planters with natural charm. The woven texture adds instant cottage-style appeal to any room or porch.
Quick how-to: Line basket with plastic to protect from water damage, poke drainage holes through liner, attach rope at four points around rim for even weight distribution.
I’ve found the best baskets at garage sales for under $2 – they always become conversation starters once planted and hung.
8. Hanging Lightbulb Planter (Mini Terrarium Style)
Large burnt-out lightbulbs transform into tiny hanging terrariums that create magical miniature worlds. These glass orbs catch light beautifully and make stunning air plant displays.
Quick how-to: Carefully remove metal base and internals wearing safety glasses, clean thoroughly, add small stones and air plant or moss, hang with thin wire around screw threads.
My first attempt took forever to clean out, but now I can prep a lightbulb in 10 minutes – they’re my favorite gifts for plant lovers.
9. Coffee Tin Hanging Planter
Coffee tins are the perfect size for herb gardens and have tight-fitting lids for easy transport. The metal construction holds up beautifully to daily watering and frequent harvesting.
Quick how-to: Remove label and clean completely, paint exterior with outdoor paint if hanging outside, drill drainage holes in bottom, thread rope through punched holes near top rim.
I started with one tin for basil – now I have eight hanging in my kitchen window growing all my cooking herbs.
10. Old Jeans Pocket Wall-Hanging Planter
Worn-out jeans get recycled into quirky wall planters that bring personality to boring walls. The denim pockets are naturally the right size for small plants and herbs.
Quick how-to: Cut out back pockets with extra fabric around edges, sew bottom seam shut if needed, add plastic liner to protect walls, mount on wooden board or hang on wall hooks.
This project saved my favorite jeans from the trash pile – now they’re a fun focal point in my daughter’s room.
Stylish Macramé & Textile Hanging Planters
Macramé is having a moment. Here’s how to join the trend.
11. Basic Macramé Hanging Planter
Macramé creates beautiful boho-style plant hangers that work in any modern home. This ancient knotting technique is surprisingly easy to learn and incredibly satisfying to master.
Quick how-to: Fold 8 cords (4 feet each) through a ring, separate into 4 groups, tie knots 6 inches down, bring adjacent groups together and tie 4 inches below, gather all strands for final knot.
I was intimidated by macramé until I tried this basic pattern – now I make them as gifts because everyone thinks I’m crafty.
12. Macramé with Beads and Wooden Accents
Adding beads and wooden elements elevates basic macramé into sophisticated home decor. The natural materials bring warmth and texture that complements any plant beautifully.
Quick how-to: Follow basic macramé steps but slide wooden beads onto strands before tying knots, mix different bead sizes for visual interest, use wooden rings at top instead of simple knots.
The first time I added beads, it took forever – now I can bead a hanger in 20 minutes and they always look professionally made.
13. Braided T-shirt Yarn Plant Hanger
Old t-shirts become colorful, stretchy plant hangers that are perfect for beginners. The fabric yarn is forgiving to work with and creates a casual, comfortable look that kids love.
Quick how-to: Cut t-shirt into 1-inch strips, stretch strips to make them curl into yarn, braid three strips together to make thick cord, use like regular rope for any hanging project.
This was my daughter’s first successful plant hanger project – the stretchy t-shirt material hides mistakes beautifully.
14. Macramé Double Planter (Two-in-One Design)
Double planters maximize your vertical growing space while creating stunning cascading displays. One hanger supports two plants at different levels for dramatic visual impact.
Quick how-to: Start with 12 cords instead of 8, create the first plant cradle as usual, continue knotting down 8 more inches to create a second cradle below the first one.
I designed this for my small apartment balcony – it doubled my plant space without taking up any extra ceiling area.
15. Embroidery Hoop Fabric Sling Planter
Embroidery hoops create modern, minimalist plant displays that look like floating art. The fabric sling gently cradles plants while the circular frame adds geometric interest.
Quick how-to: Stretch fabric tightly across embroidery hoop, cut small X in center for plant, hang hoop with three evenly-spaced cords attached to rim.
My first attempt was too loose and the plant fell through – now I stretch the fabric drum-tight and they’re completely secure.
16. Rope-Wrapped Pot with Hanging Loops
Plain terracotta pots get textured makeovers with rope wrapping that adds natural warmth. The rope also provides extra grip and insulation for plant roots.
Quick how-to: Start wrapping rope at pot bottom using hot glue to secure, keep wraps tight and even, create three rope loops at rim for hanging points, secure with extra glue.
I’ve wrapped over 30 pots this way – the rope texture makes cheap pots look expensive and custom-made.
17. Canvas Wall Pocket Hanging Planter
Sewn canvas pockets create living walls perfect for herb gardens in kitchens. Multiple pockets mounted together transform blank walls into productive growing spaces.
Quick how-to: Cut canvas rectangles, fold bottom third up and sew sides to create pockets, add grommets at top for hanging, line with plastic and add drainage holes.
My kitchen wall now grows all my cooking herbs – fresh basil and cilantro are always within arm’s reach while cooking.
18. Felt Strip Hanging Pocket Planter
Felt naturally sticks to itself, making it perfect for no-sew plant pocket projects. The thick material provides good insulation for plant roots and comes in endless colors.
Quick how-to: Cut felt into long strips, weave strips together to create basket shape without sewing, felt sticks to itself when pressed, add rope handles through woven sides.
I love felt projects because there’s no sewing required – even my 8-year-old nephew successfully made one of these.
Wood, Rope & Rustic Hanging Planters
Wood adds warmth to any space. These projects bring nature indoors.
19. Wooden Dowel and Rope Hanging Shelf
Wooden dowels create floating plant shelves that look like modern art installations. The simple design showcases your plants while adding clean geometric lines to any space.
Quick how-to: Drill holes through each dowel end, thread rope through holes to create ladder-like shelves, space dowels 8-10 inches apart for proper plant spacing.
I built my first one for a narrow hallway – now everyone asks where I bought this “expensive-looking” plant display.
20. Rustic Wooden Box Hanging Planter
Wooden crates bring instant farmhouse charm while providing generous growing space for larger plants. These sturdy containers handle heavy soil loads and look authentic in any rustic setting.
Quick how-to: Line crate with plastic to protect wood from water damage, drill drainage holes through plastic and wood, attach rope or chain at corners, and sand rough edges for safety.
My neighbor was throwing away apple crates – now they’re my most complimented planters on the front porch.
21. Wood Slice Hanging Plant Hanger
Tree slices create unique circular platforms perfect for showcasing air plants and small succulents. Each piece has natural character and brings organic texture to modern spaces.
Quick how-to: Sand slice smooth and seal with outdoor finish, drill holes for rope attachment, works great for air plants that don’t need soil.
Tree services give these away free – I’ve collected dozens and now have a whole forest theme going in my living room.
22. Repurposed Ladder with Hanging Pots
Old step ladders become vertical plant displays that maximize growing space in small areas. The rungs provide perfect attachment points for multiple hanging pots at different heights.
Quick how-to: Clean and paint ladder if needed, hang small pots from rungs using S-hooks, lean against wall or hang entire ladder if lightweight.
My garage sale ladder cost $5 and now holds 12 plants – it’s the most productive piece of furniture I own.
23. Tree Branch Hanging Planter Rack
Sturdy branches bring the outdoors inside while creating natural, organic plant displays. Each branch is unique and adds rustic character that can’t be bought in stores.
Quick how-to: Find sturdy branches 2-3 feet long, clean and dry completely to prevent pests, seal with clear finish for indoor use, hang pots at different heights along the branch.
I found the perfect branch on a hiking trip – now it’s the centerpiece of my plant room and holds six trailing plants beautifully.
24. Floating Wood Shelf Planter
Routed wood shelves create the illusion of floating plants that seem to defy gravity. The hidden rope attachment points maintain the clean, minimalist aesthetic.
Quick how-to: Cut wood to desired shelf length, route out channel for pot to sit in, attach rope at both ends keeping attachment points hidden underneath.
This took me three tries to get the hidden attachment right – now friends think my plants are actually floating.
25. Wood Pallet Hanging Garden
Free pallets transform into living walls that can support dozens of plants in minimal space. The slat design provides natural planting pockets perfect for herbs and small vegetables.
Quick how-to: Use only heat-treated pallets marked “HT” for safety, sand thoroughly to remove splinters, add landscape fabric backing to hold soil, plant in slat openings.
My first pallet garden now feeds my family fresh salads year-round – it cost nothing but produces hundreds of dollars worth of vegetables.
Hanging Planters with Natural or Organic Materials
Nature provides amazing planter materials.
26. Coconut Shell Hanging Planter
Coconut shells are nature’s perfect planters with built-in water resistance and tropical style. These natural containers bring exotic flair while being completely biodegradable and sustainable.
Quick how-to: Save shells after enjoying fresh coconut water, clean out all meat and fiber completely, drill drainage holes and rope attachment points, natural brown color looks great anywhere.
I started collecting these after beach vacations – now I have a whole tropical corner that reminds me of paradise year-round.
27. Clay or Terracotta Pot with Rope
Classic terracotta pots get modern hanging makeovers that combine traditional gardening with contemporary style. The porous clay naturally regulates moisture while rope adds rustic charm.
Quick how-to: Choose pots with drainage holes already made, thread rope through holes or around rim securely, terracotta provides excellent airflow that plants love.
These were my grandmother’s gardening pots – adding rope hangers gave them new life and honored her gardening legacy.
28. Seashell Mini Hanging Planters
Large shells become enchanting tiny gardens perfect for air plants and miniature displays. These ocean treasures bring beachy vibes and natural sculptural beauty to any space.
Quick how-to: Use large shells like conch or scallop shells, drill small hole for hanging wire, no drainage needed for air plants, perfect for small succulents too.
My shell collection finally found purpose beyond gathering dust – now each one houses a tiny plant and tells a vacation story.
29. Woven Grass Basket Hanger
Natural grass baskets provide excellent drainage and breathability that plants absolutely love. The organic materials create a cohesive look with living plants while lasting surprisingly long outdoors.
Quick how-to: Line with coconut fiber to prevent soil spillage, natural materials last longer outdoors than indoors, replace liners seasonally as they break down naturally.
These remind me of my travels through rural villages – simple, functional, and beautiful in their natural simplicity.
30. Hanging Bamboo Tube Planters
Bamboo segments create naturally perfect planting containers that embody sustainable gardening principles. Each tube is already the ideal size and shape for small plants and herbs.
Quick how-to: Cut bamboo between joints to create natural containers, sand cut edges smooth for safety, drill drainage holes if needed, natural segments are already right-sized.
Growing up in Hawaii, bamboo was everywhere – now I grow my own bamboo just to make these planters.
31. Driftwood Hanging Air Plant Display
Beach-weathered driftwood creates stunning sculptural displays that showcase air plants beautifully. Each piece tells a story of ocean journeys while providing the perfect growing platform.
Quick how-to: Look for pieces with natural holes or curves where plants can nestle, clean thoroughly and dry completely, no soil needed for air plants, mist weekly to keep plants happy.
My favorite piece came from a remote Oregon beach – it now holds five air plants and brings ocean memories into my city apartment.
Multi-Tier & Wall-Mounted Planters
Go vertical when floor space is limited.
32. 3-Tier Vertical Rope Planter
Vertical planters triple your growing space using one ceiling hook and smart rope spacing. This design creates stunning cascading displays while maximizing small spaces efficiently.
Quick how-to: Use three identical pots and one long rope, create plant cradles at different heights along the same rope, space tiers 12-18 inches apart so plants don’t shade each other.
My tiny balcony now grows nine plants in the space of one – this design saved my urban gardening dreams.
33. Hanging Plant Shelf with Multiple Levels
Ladder-style planters hold multiple pots at different heights for dramatic vertical gardens. The shelving system makes watering easy while creating impressive living wall displays.
Quick how-to: Connect wooden shelves with rope or chain, each shelf holds multiple small pots, adjust spacing based on your plant sizes for optimal growth.
I built this for my dark hallway – now it’s the brightest, most alive space in my house with 12 thriving plants.
34. Wall-Mounted Test Tube Propagation Station
Clear test tubes create fascinating displays where you can watch plant roots develop over time. This scientific approach to gardening becomes a living art that educates and inspires.
Quick how-to: Mount wooden board to wall, drill holes sized for test tubes or small vases, fill with water for rooting plant cuttings, watch roots grow through clear glass.
My kids are obsessed with watching the roots grow – this turned plant propagation into our favorite family science experiment.
35. Pegboard with Hanging Mini Pots
Pegboards provide ultimate flexibility for changing plant arrangements whenever inspiration strikes. The modular system grows with your plant collection and changing needs.
Quick how-to: Paint pegboard to match your decor, use pegboard hooks to hang small planters, rearrange anytime you want a completely new look.
I change my pegboard arrangement monthly – it’s like redecorating without spending money or moving furniture.
36. Hanging Picture Frame Planter
Old picture frames transform into living artworks that literally grow more beautiful over time. This project turns forgotten frames into conversation-starting vertical gardens.
Quick how-to: Remove glass and backing from picture frames, stretch chicken wire across opening, fill with moss and stick small plants through wire, hang like artwork.
My broken frame collection finally has a purpose – now they’re the most unique “artwork” in my home.
37. Wall Grid Hanging with Clip-On Pots
Wire grid systems offer endless possibilities for arranging and rearranging your plant displays. The industrial look pairs surprisingly well with natural plants for modern appeal.
Quick how-to: Mount wire grid panels to wall securely, use clips or S-hooks to attach small pots anywhere on the grid, change arrangement whenever inspiration strikes.
This system evolved with my plant addiction – I started with 6 plants and now have 20 without needing more wall space.
Kids, Mini, and Creative Planter Projects
These projects are perfect for family time.
38. LEGO Hanging Planter
LEGO bricks create colorful, customizable planters that kids can design and redesign endlessly. These plastic planters are completely waterproof and bring playful creativity to gardening projects.
Quick how-to: Use larger LEGO pieces for easier building, create simple box shapes with drainage gaps between bricks, kids love helping with construction, plastic is plant-safe and easy to clean.
My son designed our first one – now he’s the chief architect of our LEGO plant collection and takes full credit for their success.
39. Painted Tin Planters with Faces
Personality-filled planters become beloved garden characters that make plant care more engaging and fun. Each face develops its own story and brings joy to daily watering routines.
Quick how-to: Paint expressive faces on clean tin cans before converting to planters, use weather-resistant paint for outdoor planters, let kids choose expressions and colors for maximum creativity.
My daughter named all of ours – “Sunny” the yellow one grows marigolds, “Grumpy” holds cacti, and “Happy” overflows with trailing petunias.
40. Hanging Fairy Garden in a Basket
Miniature magical worlds captivate children and adults alike while creating enchanting garden displays. These tiny landscapes spark imagination and make perfect gifts for fantasy lovers.
Quick how-to: Start with a small basket lined with moss, add tiny plants and miniature furniture with small figurines, hang at kid height for easy viewing and interaction.
Our fairy garden started with one tiny house – now it’s a whole village complete with roads, bridges, and seasonal decorations.
41. Mini Hanging Planters with Air-Dry Clay
Hand-sculpted clay planters bring artistic expression to gardening while creating completely unique containers. No kiln required means anyone can create custom planters at home.
Quick how-to: Shape small bowls or unique forms with air-dry clay, let dry completely before adding plants, paint with acrylics after drying for personalized designs.
My first attempts were lumpy disasters – now I sell these at craft fairs because people love the handmade, imperfect charm.
Tools & Tips for Hanging Planter Success
Your plants will thank you for these tips. Hanging plants dry out faster than ground plants, so check soil daily by sticking your finger into the dirt and water slowly to prevent overflow using a watering can with a long spout for easier reach.
Calculate weight before hanging because wet soil is much heavier than dry soil, and your mounting hardware must support planter weight, soil weight, water weight, and plant weight combined.
Every hanging planter needs drainage holes because without drainage, roots rot quickly – place saucers under indoor planters to protect floors and elevate outdoor planters slightly so water can escape.
Hanging plants often get different light than ground plants, so monitor for signs like pale leaves indicating too much light, leggy growth showing too little light, or brown leaf tips revealing inconsistent watering.
Indoor plants need less water in winter while outdoor plants may need frost protection, so bring tender plants indoors when temperatures drop.
Conclusion
You now have 41 proven ways to create hanging planters.
Start simple. Grab a mason jar or tin can from your kitchen. These beginner projects build your confidence. Pick 2-3 projects that match your style. Don’t overwhelm yourself trying everything at once.
The key rules:
- Add drainage holes to prevent root rot
- Use strong mounting hardware
- Match plants to their light needs
I’ve given you projects that actually work. No guesswork needed.
Your empty walls are waiting to become green, living spaces. These hanging planters will transform any room.
Which project calls to you first? Start there and watch your space come alive.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much weight can my ceiling actually hold for hanging planters?
Standard drywall anchors safely hold 20-30 pounds when installed correctly. For heavier planters, you must find ceiling joists or use heavy-duty toggle bolts rated for your planter’s total weight.
What’s the biggest mistake people make with DIY hanging planters?
Forgetting drainage holes is the number one killer of hanging plants. Without proper drainage, even the healthiest plants will develop root rot and die within weeks.
Can I hang planters on apartment walls without damaging them?
Yes, use removable adhesive hooks rated for your planter’s weight, or tension rods between walls. Command strips work only for very lightweight planters under 5 pounds when fully watered.
How do I stop my hanging plants from spinning in the wind?
Use multiple hanging points instead of a single center point, or add small weights to the bottom of lightweight planters. Three-point hanging systems create the most stability for outdoor planters.
What’s the easiest hanging planter for complete beginners?
Mason jar planters are foolproof for beginners because the materials are cheap and readily available. You only need wire, a drill for drainage holes, and basic plants like pothos or herbs.
