Succulents are easy to work with, so they make the perfect plant for kids’ projects. Common succulents are relatively self-sufficient, and you can easily take cuttings from existing ones you may already have. They are small, making them perfect for little fingers, and they look amazing in just about any planter. We love coming up with creative ways to plant because if you can put soil in it, a plant will grow. From tiny fairy pot plants to jars, books, and toys, enjoy planting this weekend with the kids and create your own fun succulent planters.
Dinosaur planters
Upcycle dinosaur toys when kids stop playing with them because they make the best planters for a dino-garden. Using a sharp knife, cut out the back of your toy dinosaur to create a space for the soil and plant. Paint your planters with lots of fun colours. Once dry use a sharp object to make a drainage hole at the bottom. Find a space in your garden or build a box like we did on a stand so they can move around. Let the kids design an amazing dinosaur garden with blue coloured pebbles for water, some Jurassic-looking plants, and a bridge to cross.
Doll planters
Using the same process, you can up-cycle your kids’ unused toys and turn them into play gardens. Plan your play garden before you start, and let creativity flow. We found these little trolls, which were perfect for a troll village. The leftover thatched fence made the perfect hut, and the kids took it from there. If you’ve got a craft box, go through it and see if they can use all the bits and bobs. Large pot plant trays make a great base, so your project can be moved.
Succulent jar gifts
For Christmas, Mother’s Day, or any special occasion, these succulent jars make a perfect handmade gift. Succulents don’t like wet feet, so if you’re using a jar, make sure you layer different materials to collect any excess water. We sprayed these cuttings with water every few days. For the top layer, use succulent mix and add your cuttings, then finish them off with a handmade gift tag.
Fairy planters
Up-cycle your old coffee pods into gorgeous little fairy planters. Gently make a hole in the bottom for drainage then fill with soil. Use small cuttings for these. Make sure you spray them regularly so they don’t dry out, and you can even add some twine and hang some up. If you don’t use pods, ask your friends. These should be recycled rather than added to landfill. Create a new space like we did in this tray or add them to an existing fairy garden for a touch of green. Fairies adore them!
Desk planter
Perfect for a teacher, librarian, or office worker, this desk planter is made with love. Using a wooden box, make some drainage holes first. You’ll need a few wooden rulers, some wood glue, and someone handy with a drop saw. Once you’ve cut the rulers, glue them onto the box and let them dry. Fill your pot with soil and start planting your succulents. Spray every couple of days or water once a week. Remember succulents don’t like wet feet so make sure the water doesn’t pool in the box. Finish with coloured stones, and we also made these cute message pencils.
Book planter
This project is our favourite if you’re up for a challenge. Recycle an old hard-covered book by turning it into a planter. Find a plastic container for the pot and measure the cut on the top of the book then use masking tape to mark the cut. Before you start, tape the book together, then use a multi-purpose tool and work your way through the layers. Maybe have a few books as backup so you can use one for a trial. Once the hole is made you can start working on the mini succulent garden. Fill with soil and arrange your cuttings then spray with water to dampen the soil. Decorate with pebbles and tie the book together with some twine or ribbon. Finish by placing the mini garden inside the space you created inside the book.
Succulent planters
For soil, use succulent mix, and keep your creations out of direct sunlight. A nice shaded area that has plenty of light is perfect for growing succulents. Enjoy making these fun succulent planters with the kids, and let their imagination guide their projects. Just about anything can be made into a planter.
If you like growing with kids, have a read of our Kids Veggie Patch: 4 steps to success
