Let me tell you, when I first got into decorating with plants, I thought it was just going to be a couple of succulents on the windowsill. Fast forward to today, and my home looks like a cross between a greenhouse and a jungle! I didn’t just “get a plant”—I dove in, headfirst. And if you’ve got the plant bug too, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re talking about how to deck out your home with plants—creatively, stylishly, and in a way that makes your home feel alive.
Create a Green Focal Point
Plants can do more than sit in the corner—they can own a room. A large plant, like a fiddle leaf fig or a snake plant, can turn an ordinary living space into something magical. Think of it like a statement piece of furniture, except it grows (bonus points). I once placed a monstera plant right by my sofa, and it was like I’d hung a giant piece of leafy art! Plus, the beauty of a large plant is that it can fill an otherwise empty space without you having to figure out what else to put there. Less stress, more green.
Tip: Want to make a splash? Go big with a tall plant or something with wide, architectural leaves—banana trees, palms, or even a rubber plant. They add volume and drama in one swoop.
Layer Plants at Different Heights
One plant sitting on the ground is nice, but a variety of plants at different levels? Now we’re talking. Shelves, plant stands, and even hanging planters allow you to create depth and dimension. It’s like a living gallery wall. When I started doing this, I noticed how much more visually interesting my space became. You can experiment with small plants on shelves, medium-sized ones on stands, and trailing plants hanging from hooks or ceiling planters. And don’t be afraid to mix it up! Play around with pot shapes and sizes to keep things fresh.
Anecdote: My first attempt at this layering thing? It was a disaster. I tried hanging a spider plant too low and kept walking right into it! Lesson learned—height matters.
Hang Your Plants—Literally
If floor space is a little tight, or you want to make the most of vertical space, hanging plants is the way to go. I’m a sucker for a well-placed pothos or fern dangling from the ceiling. Hanging plants not only save space but also add a touch of whimsy. It’s like your home has these living ornaments everywhere, breathing life into dull corners. Pro-tip: Make sure your hooks are sturdy, because nothing ruins the vibe faster than a fallen plant (been there, done that).
Plant Ideas: Try trailing plants like ivy, string of pearls, or philodendrons. They cascade down beautifully, filling vertical space with a soft, natural touch.
Use Plants as Room Dividers
Open floor plans are great and all, but sometimes you need to section things off without resorting to boring screens or walls. Enter large plants. Group them together, and voilà—you’ve got a natural room divider. When I first tried this, I used a group of tall palms and ficus trees to create a cozy little reading nook. Not only did it make the space feel separate, but the plants brought this fresh, lively atmosphere that no piece of furniture could replicate.
Suggestion: If you’ve got the space, try clustering a few tall plants like ficus, rubber plants, or even a few well-placed palms. Bonus points if you vary the heights to make it feel more organic.
Get Creative with Containers
Sure, the plants are important, but let’s not forget about the pots. You wouldn’t throw on a beautiful dress without the right shoes, would you? The same goes for plants and their containers. Get creative! Terracotta pots, woven baskets, colorful ceramics—there’s no limit. I’m always on the lookout for unique containers, especially when I’m thrift shopping. One of my best finds was a vintage copper bowl that I now use as a planter.
Tip: Try grouping plants in matching or complementary pots for a cohesive look. And if you’re a fan of the eclectic style, mix and match away! Different textures and colors can add an extra layer of fun to your plant decor.
Build a Plant Wall
If you really want to go big, a plant wall is the ultimate showstopper. Not only does it make a statement, but it also brings a sense of lushness that you simply can’t get from anything else. A good friend of mine once transformed her living room with a DIY plant wall, and I’ve been envious ever since. She used a simple shelving system and added hanging plants, small pots, and a few trailing varieties to create a true focal point. It’s like having your very own vertical garden inside your home.
Pro-Tip: Opt for plants like pothos, ferns, or philodendrons—these are great for plant walls because they can grow upwards or hang down depending on where you place them.
Don’t Forget the Bathroom
Bathrooms are often overlooked when it comes to plant decor, but they shouldn’t be! Some plants thrive in humidity, making the bathroom their dream home. I once placed a Boston fern in my bathroom, and let me tell you, it’s never looked better. Plus, having a bit of greenery in there makes the space feel like a mini spa. Who doesn’t love that?
Best Plants for the Bathroom: Ferns, orchids, and peace lilies do particularly well in humid environments. Even a few air plants can thrive here—just spritz them with water every now and then.
Tiny Spaces, Big Green Impact
Even if you’re working with a small space, that doesn’t mean you have to skip the greenery. In fact, plants can make a small room feel bigger and more vibrant. I love using succulents or air plants in tiny rooms—they don’t take up much space, but they pack a punch in terms of visual appeal. And if you’re really pressed for space, consider a hanging plant or a small shelf with a few potted beauties.
Suggestion: Succulents and cacti are great for small spaces. You can fit a bunch of them on a windowsill, and they’re super easy to care for. Low-maintenance plants? Sign me up!
Seasonal Plant Swaps
One fun way to keep your plant decor fresh is to switch things up seasonally. During spring, I like to bring in bright, colorful blooms. In the fall, I swap them out for more muted, autumnal tones. It keeps the decor feeling fresh and alive, without needing a major overhaul. Plus, it’s a great excuse to add a few new plants to your collection (not that we ever need an excuse, right?).
Final Thoughts: What’s Your Favorite Plant Decor Hack?
Decorating with plants is all about creativity and making your space feel more like you. Whether you’re just starting with one plant or you’re on your way to turning your home into a greenhouse like me, there’s no right or wrong way to do it. The key is to have fun with it.
Dustin Barnard is the editor-in-cheif at Urban Heavenly, a platform dedicated to making homes more beautiful and functional. With a passion for design and a keen eye for detail, Dustin shares practical advice, innovative ideas, and DIY tips to help homeowners transform their spaces into personal sanctuaries.