Home Garden

How to Decorate With Jars & Plants

It doesn't have to be difficult, overwhelming or expensive to add designer-inspired decor to your home. You do not need a green thumb to take plant clippings or seedlings from obscurity to greenhouse status. Turn simple glass jars into decorative points of interest. Use inexpensive plants and everyday jars to transform your home's tired palette and create the oasis you have always dreamed of.

Things You'll Need

  • Glass jars
  • Small stones
  • Small plants or cuttings
  • Dirt or compost
  • Water
Show More

Instructions

  1. Plants in Jars

    • 1
      Plain canning jars are an easy option.

      Choose your jars in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors. Consider everything from tiny baby food jars to large antique pickle jars.

    • 2

      Thoroughly clean the jars with hot, soapy water and dry completely.

    • 3

      Choose a filler. Use small stones; they can be plain, colorful or glass. Put just a handful on the bottom, for additional drainage, if you are going to use dirt. Add dirt to half of the jar. If you prefer to only use stones, fill to your liking depending on the size of your plants. Or layer rocks and dirt for a dramatic look.

    • 4
      Choose succulents in a variety of colors.

      Add desired plants or seedlings carefully to the middle. Choose hearty succulents for the easiest care. Plants can be contained fully inside the jar, or sprout out the top like a floral arrangement.

    • 5

      Add a small amount of water; do not saturate.

    • 6

      Sit the jars on end tables, counters or shelves to add instant pizazz. Make sure plants get at least partial sun for some of the day.

    Jars

    • 7
      Choose a beach-themed collection for relaxation.

      Gather glass jars of varying sizes or uniform sizes. Colored jars can spice up a neutral interior. Spray-paint jars to match your home's palette.

    • 8

      Fill jars with small items from memorable trips or from collections you have. Sand, shells, rocks and sea glass are pleasing to the eye.

    • 9

      Put lids on the jars to prevent dust and debris.

    • 10

      Display jars together or separately on shelves, counters or windowsills.

    Plants

    • 11
      Indoor plants add warmth to any room.

      Choose indoor plants according to the type of sun exposure your rooms permit.

    • 12

      Choose unusual containers, such as large seashells or antique milk pails or butter churns. Your planter will also be a conversation piece.

    • 13

      Use indoor potting mix for optimum plant growth and care.

    • 14

      Put indoor plants in unexpected places like bathrooms, entryways, mudrooms and fireplaces. Make sure to have a drainage plate to catch water overflow. Do not overwater.