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Succulents are low-maintenance plants that you can transform into living works of art. In this article, we’ll explore how to create succulent art, from framed displays to hanging gardens. This Old House landscape designer Jenn Nawada also demonstrates the process of planting a succulent frame in the video above.
Types of Succulents for Art Projects
Succulents are plants that can easily retain water and thrive in arid conditions, making them a good fit for indoor cultivation. They come in various sizes and colors. When selecting succulents for your art project, consider the following popular varieties:
- Crassula
- Echeveria
- Kalanchoe
- Sedum
- Sempervivum
Preparations Before You Begin a Succulent Art Project
Before starting your succulent art project, gather the following materials and tools:
- Frame or container
- Gardening gloves
- Mesh wire or hardware cloth
- Scissors or wire cutters
- Staple gun
- Succulent plants
- Succulent soil mix
- Watering can
Creating a Framed Succulent Display
A framed succulent display is one way to showcase these plants as living art.
Step 1: Prepare the Frame
This project involves creating a shallow planting area within a picture frame.
- Choose a sturdy picture frame with a depth of at least 2 inches.
- Remove the glass and backing from the frame.
- Attach mesh wire or hardware cloth to the back of the frame using a staple gun.
- Flip the frame over and fill it halfway with succulent soil mix.
Step 2: Plant the Succulents
In the video, Jenn Nawada demonstrates how to plant succulents in a frame, emphasizing the importance of packing the soil tightly to prevent plants from falling out when the frame is hung vertically. When planting your succulents, consider the following tips:
- Arrange larger plants first, then fill in with smaller ones.
- Use a variety of colors, textures, and shapes for visual interest.
- Plant succulents close together for a full appearance.
- Gently but firmly pack soil around the roots to secure the plants.
- Give the plants a good watering to establish roots in new bed.
- Elevate the frame top to bottom to force drainage.
- Drain any excess water.
- Wait two to three days before hanging plants up vertically.
Step 3: Caring for Your Succulent Frame
To maintain your succulent frame:
- Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
- Place the frame in bright, indirect light.
- Rotate the frame occasionally for even growth.
- Trim any overgrown plants to maintain the desired shape.
Alternative Succulent Art Ideas
While framed displays are a popular option, there are many other creative ways to showcase succulents as art.
- Succulent wreaths: Create a living wreath by planting succulents in a moss-filled wire form. This makes for a stunning door decoration or wall hanging.
- Vertical gardens: Design a vertical garden using a variety of containers mounted on a wall. This can include repurposed items like wooden pallets or specially designed vertical planters.
- Terrarium art: Craft miniature landscapes in glass containers, combining succulents with decorative elements like rocks, sand, and figurines.
Tips for Successful Succulent Art
To make sure your succulent art thrives, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose plants with similar light and water requirements.
- Use a well-draining soil mix specifically formulated for succulents.
- Avoid overwatering, as succulents are prone to root rot.
- Provide adequate light, but protect from harsh, direct sunlight.
- Allow newly planted arrangements to establish roots before hanging vertically.
Cost Considerations When Creating Succulent Art
The cost of creating succulent art can vary depending on the size of your project and the types of plants and materials used. As mentioned in the video, a pre-made succulent frame can cost around $200,* while DIY options may be more budget-friendly. Plants typically start close to $5 each, depending on the plant, and frames or containers can vary widely in price.
*Unless otherwise noted, costs in this article reflect an average of prices that our team found from hardware stores like Lowes and Home Depot, and on Amazon.com.
Our Conclusion
Creating succulent art can bring nature indoors while expressing your creativity. With proper care and attention to detail, you can craft living displays for your home. You can purchase ready-made planting frames, or save money by taking the DIY route.
