
DIY Eco-Friendly Hanging Planters for Low Light Plants
Discover how to create stunning DIY eco-friendly hanging planters perfect for low light plants! Learn materials, step-by-step guides, and plant care tips for a greener home.
Introduction
Did you know that low light plants can thrive even in the darkest corners of your home? Pair them with a handmade, eco-friendly hanging planter, and you’ve got a match made in green heaven! Whether you’re a plant newbie or a seasoned gardener, this guide will walk you through crafting beautiful, sustainable hanging planters that are kind to the planet—and your space. Let’s dive in and bring some leafy charm to your home!
Why Choose Eco-Friendly Hanging Planters?
Benefits of Sustainable Materials for Plant Health and the Environment
Eco-friendly hanging planters aren’t just a trend—they’re a smart choice for both your plants and the planet. Traditional plastic planters can leach harmful chemicals into the soil over time, which may affect plant health. On the other hand, sustainable materials like bamboo, coconut coir, and upcycled fabrics are non-toxic and breathable, promoting better root aeration and drainage.
Plus, opting for eco-conscious materials reduces waste. By repurposing old jars, fabric scraps, or natural fibers, you’re keeping these items out of landfills while creating something beautiful. It’s a small but impactful way to contribute to a greener lifestyle.
How Hanging Planters Save Space and Enhance Indoor Air Quality
If you’re tight on space, hanging planters are a game-changer. They free up valuable floor and shelf space while adding greenery to areas that would otherwise go unused—like empty corners, windows, or above furniture.
Beyond aesthetics, hanging plants improve indoor air quality. Many low-light plants, such as spider plants and pothos, are natural air purifiers, filtering out toxins like formaldehyde and benzene. By elevating them, you maximize their air-cleaning potential while keeping them out of reach of pets or curious kids.
The Aesthetic Appeal of Handmade Planters in Home Decor
There’s something special about handmade planters—they add warmth and personality to any space. Whether it’s a macramé hanger with intricate knots or a painted upcycled jar, these pieces bring a unique, artisanal touch to your decor.
Eco-friendly planters also offer versatility. You can choose natural textures like jute or coconut coir for a boho vibe, or sleek bamboo for a minimalist look. The best part? They’re customizable, so you can match them to your home’s style effortlessly.
Best Low Light Plants for Hanging Planters
Top 5 Low Light Plants That Thrive Indoors
Not all plants need bright sunlight to flourish. Here are five low-maintenance options perfect for hanging planters:
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Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) – Known for its trailing vines, pothos is nearly indestructible. It thrives in low to moderate light and only needs watering when the soil feels dry.
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Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) – With its arching leaves and baby “spiderettes,” this plant is a classic. It tolerates low light but prefers indirect sunlight.
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Philodendron (Heartleaf Philodendron) – Another easy-care trailing plant, philodendrons adapt well to dim corners and require minimal watering.
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Peperomia (Peperomia spp.) – Compact and colorful, peperomias come in many varieties, all of which do well in low light with occasional watering.
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ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) – While not a trailing plant, ZZ’s upright growth looks stunning in hanging pots. It’s drought-tolerant and thrives in low light.
Care Tips for Each Plant
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Pothos: Water every 1-2 weeks; trim vines to encourage bushier growth.
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Spider Plant: Keep soil slightly moist; remove brown tips by trimming with clean scissors.
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Philodendron: Water when the top inch of soil is dry; wipe leaves to keep them dust-free.
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Peperomia: Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
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ZZ Plant: Water sparingly (every 2-3 weeks); thrives on neglect.
How to Pair Plants with the Right Planter Style
Trailing plants like pothos and philodendrons look stunning in macramé hangers or woven baskets, while compact plants like peperomias suit smaller upcycled jars. For ZZ plants, opt for sturdier coconut coir or bamboo planters to support their upright growth.
Materials for DIY Eco-Friendly Hanging Planters
Sustainable Material Options
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Recycled Jars & Bottles: Glass jars, wine bottles, or tin cans can be transformed with paint or twine.
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Coconut Coir: A natural, biodegradable liner that’s perfect for breathable planters.
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Bamboo: Lightweight yet durable, bamboo is ideal for sleek, modern designs.
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Upcycled Fabric: Old T-shirts, denim, or burlap can be braided or woven into hangers.
Tools Needed for Crafting
Basic supplies include scissors, twine or rope, hooks or rings for hanging, and non-toxic glue (for fabric or coir projects). If you’re working with glass jars, a drill with a glass bit helps create drainage holes.
Where to Source Eco-Friendly Supplies
Check local thrift stores for jars and fabric scraps. For coconut coir or bamboo, try garden centers or online shops like Etsy or EarthHero. Even hardware stores often carry jute or hemp rope for macramé projects.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Hanging Planter
Macramé Hanging Planter: Easy Knots for Beginners
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Cut four equal lengths of cotton rope (about 8 feet each).
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Fold them in half and loop through a metal ring, securing with a lark’s head knot.
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Separate into pairs and tie square knots about 6 inches down. Repeat every few inches.
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Gather all strands below the last knot, tie a final knot, and trim excess.
Upcycled Jar Planter: Transforming Glass Jars
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Clean a glass jar and drill a small drainage hole in the bottom (optional).
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Wrap the jar’s neck with twine, securing with glue.
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Attach wire or rope around the rim for hanging.
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Add pebbles for drainage, then soil and your plant.
Coconut Coir Planter: A Natural, Biodegradable Option
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Line a wire basket with coconut coir liner.
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Secure the edges with twine or clips.
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Fill with soil and plant. The coir retains moisture while allowing airflow.
Fabric-Wrapped Planter: Using Old Fabric Scraps
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Cut fabric into strips and braid or weave them into a pouch.
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Secure the ends with glue or stitching.
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Insert a small plastic pot (with drainage) inside the fabric holder.
Tips for Maintaining Your Hanging Planters
How Often to Water Low Light Plants
Most low-light plants prefer drying out slightly between waterings. Check the soil with your finger—if the top inch is dry, it’s time to water. Overwatering is a common mistake, especially in hanging planters where excess water can’t escape easily.
Preventing Mold and Pests in Eco-Friendly Materials
Natural materials like coir and fabric can retain moisture, which may lead to mold. Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering. For pests, wipe leaves with neem oil or a mild soap solution.
Seasonal Care Adjustments
In winter, reduce watering frequency as plants grow slower. Move planters away from drafty windows. In summer, mist plants occasionally to boost humidity.
Creative Ways to Display Your Hanging Planters
Grouping Planters for a Lush, Vertical Garden
Cluster 3-5 planters at varying heights near a window or along a blank wall. Mix trailing and upright plants for depth.
Using Different Heights and Textures
Combine macramé hangers with bamboo or fabric planters for visual contrast. Play with lengths to create a cascading effect.
Best Spots in Your Home for Low Light Plants
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Bathrooms: Spider plants and pothos love the humidity.
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Hallways: Add greenery to brighten narrow spaces.
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Kitchens: Hang herbs or small peperomias near windows (but away from direct heat).
By choosing eco-friendly materials, low-light plants, and creative displays, you can enjoy lush greenery without compromising style or sustainability.
Conclusion
Creating DIY eco-friendly hanging planters is a fun, rewarding way to brighten up your space while staying sustainable. From choosing the right plants to crafting with recycled materials, you now have all the tools to bring your vision to life. So, grab your supplies and let your creativity bloom—your low light plants will thank you!