Ben Carter
There are many ways to reuse candle jars, from holding washi tape, ribbon, and other craft supplies to storing salt and pepper in your kitchen. However, one of the most popular ways to repurpose candle jars is to use them as planters. Not only is this eco-friendly, but it also adds a touch of creativity and charm to your home. To use a candle jar as a planter, you'll first need to remove any remaining wax and clean the jar. You can do this by placing the jar in the freezer and then chipping out the wax, or by melting the wax and pouring it out. Once the jar is clean, you can add a layer of small stones or perlite for drainage, followed by soil and your plant of choice. Succulents, cacti, and other drought-tolerant plants are ideal for candle jar planters since they don't require as much drainage as moisture-loving plants. You can also decorate your candle jar planter with rope, faux flowers, glitter, or other craft supplies to give it a personal touch.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| First step | Clean out the wax |
| Wax removal methods | Place the jar in the freezer for a few hours and then chip out the wax with a knife or similar tool; Place the jar in warm water and wait for the wax to melt, then pour it out; Use lemon essential oil to remove the label |
| Drainage | Add a layer of rocks or small stones to the bottom of the jar for drainage before adding soil |
| Plants to use | Succulents, cacti, and other drought-tolerant plants |
| Decoration | Attach rope around the holder with a hot glue gun, glue on faux flowers, or roll the container in glitter, gravel, or other textured material |
| Other uses | Store spices, salt, and pepper; Hold jewellery, hair accessories, lipsticks, or office supplies; Use as a toothbrush holder or a glass for beverages |
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What You'll Learn
How to clean out candle wax
To clean out candle wax, you can try a variety of methods depending on the tools you have available and the type of surface you are cleaning. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Harden the Wax
First, harden any remaining wax in your candle jar by placing it in the freezer for 2 to 4 hours or overnight. This will make it easier to remove. If you are cleaning wax off a fabric surface, you can place ice cubes in a plastic bag and lay it on top of the wax for at least 5 minutes to harden it.
Step 2: Remove Large Chunks
Once the wax is hardened, use a dull knife, spoon, spatula, or similar tool to gently pry and scrape the wax out of the jar or off the surface. Avoid using metal tools on delicate surfaces to prevent scratching.
Step 3: Melt Remaining Wax
If there is still wax remaining in your jar or on your surface, you can melt it using a hairdryer, iron, or by pouring boiling water into the jar. Be careful not to burn yourself on hot wax or water. For fabric surfaces, you can use a paper towel to absorb the melted wax.
Step 4: Clean the Surface
After removing the wax, there may still be residue or stains left behind. For glass surfaces, use a window cleaner, rubbing alcohol, drain cleaner, bleach, or vinegar to dissolve any remaining wax and stains. For wood surfaces, use a soft cloth soaked in a solution of 1/2 cup white vinegar and 1 cup water. For marble or granite surfaces, use a commercial cleaner and wipe with a soft, dry cloth.
Step 5: Final Touches
If you are cleaning a candle jar, you may need to remove the wick tab and any sticky residue from glue or stickers. Soak the jar in white vinegar for 40 minutes or scrape off the residue with a utensil. Finally, clean the inside of the jar with hot water and dish soap.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove candle wax and prepare your jar for reuse, such as propagating plant cuttings or growing herbs as suggested earlier.
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Choosing the right plants
Size of the Jar and Plant
Consider the size of your candle jar and choose a plant that will fit comfortably without becoming root-bound. Small candle containers are perfect for baby succulents, while larger jars can accommodate more mature plants or multiple smaller ones.
Drainage Considerations
Most candle jars are made of ceramic or glass and cannot be drilled for drainage holes without cracking. Therefore, it is essential to select plants that can tolerate drier conditions. Succulents, cacti, and other drought-tolerant plants are ideal for candle jar planters. You can also add a natural drainage layer, such as rocks or perlite, to the bottom of the jar to improve drainage and prevent root rot.
Soil and Nutrient Requirements
Different plants have different soil preferences and nutrient needs. When choosing a plant, consider the type of potting mix it requires and whether it needs any additional fertilisation. If you're unsure, consult a local gardener or a gardening website for advice on the best soil for your chosen plant.
Light and Humidity Requirements
Consider the lighting conditions in the area where you plan to place your candle jar planter. Select a plant that thrives in similar lighting, whether full sun, partial shade, or low light. Additionally, consider the humidity requirements of the plant. Some plants prefer drier air, while others benefit from higher humidity.
Personal Preference and Decor
Finally, choose plants that appeal to your personal taste and complement your home decor. Select plants with interesting foliage, colourful flowers, or unique characteristics that add visual interest to your space. You can also decorate your candle jar planters with rope, glitter, or faux flowers to match your style.
With these considerations in mind, you can select the perfect plants for your upcycled candle jar planters and create a charming and eco-friendly addition to your home or event decor.
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Adding drainage
A more practical method for adding drainage is to add a natural form of drainage to the bottom of the jar. This could include a layer of rocks, pebbles, glass beads, rice grains, or similar materials. These materials create a space at the bottom of the jar for water to drain into, allowing you to see when your plant has plenty of water and helping to increase drainage. This method is particularly suitable for drought-tolerant plants such as succulents and cacti, which require very little water and can be misted instead of watered.
When using this method, it is important to ensure that the plant is not sitting too high or too low in the jar. Adjusting the amount of drainage material in the jar can help achieve the correct height. Additionally, rotating the jar can help eliminate the effect of light and moss growth and promote more symmetrical plant growth, which aids in the aesthetics of the plant.
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Decorating your candle jar planter
Choose the Right Jar
Select a candle jar that is aesthetically pleasing and complements the plant you plan to put in it. Consider the size and shape of the jar to ensure it will be a good fit for your plant and your space.
Clean the Jar
Before decorating your jar, ensure it is clean and free of any wax residue. You can do this by placing the jar in the freezer for a few hours, then using a butter knife to gently pop out the frozen wax. Alternatively, you can place the jar in warm water to melt the wax, then pour out the remaining wax.
Add Drainage
Most plants require proper drainage to thrive. Since drilling holes in glass or ceramic jars can cause them to crack, consider adding a layer of rocks, gravel, or perlite to the bottom of the jar to create a natural drainage system.
Paint or Adorn the Jar
Get creative and paint the outside of your jar with colours or patterns that match your style. You can also use a hot glue gun to attach rope, faux flowers, glitter, or other decorative elements to the jar.
Add Soil and Plant
Once your jar is decorated and dry, add a layer of potting mix or soil. Choose a plant that will thrive in its new home, such as a succulent or cactus, and gently place it into the jar.
Care for Your Plant
Be sure to water your plant as needed and provide it with adequate sunlight. Enjoy your new candle jar planter and consider creating more to add a touch of greenery to your space!
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Other uses for old candle jars
Old candle jars can be reused in many ways around the home. Here are some ideas for giving your old candle jars a new lease of life:
Storage Solutions
Candle jars can be used to store a variety of items, keeping your home organised and tidy. Wide-mouth jars are ideal for holding craft supplies such as washi tape, ribbon, spools of thread, and colouring crayons. Taller jars can be used to store stationery, such as pens, pencils, paintbrushes, and scissors, as well as small items like keys, wallets, and change. In the bathroom, candle jars can be used to hold toothbrushes and toothpaste, or beauty products such as hand cream, essential oils, and makeup.
Glassware
Once thoroughly cleaned, candle jars, especially those made of sturdy glass, can be reused as glassware for beverages. They can also be used to serve food, such as breakfast goodies like overnight oats, smoothies, or parfaits.
Decorations
Candle jars can be used to create decorative centrepieces for weddings or other events. Fill tinted glass jars with fairy lights for a magical, romantic ambiance. You can also fill a candle jar with water and arrange a small bouquet of flowers inside, or float a single bloom in a low, wide container.
Planters
Before using a candle jar as a planter, it is important to consider drainage. Most candle jars are made of ceramic or glass and will crack if you try to drill a drainage hole. Instead, add a layer of rocks or perlite to the bottom of the jar to create a natural form of drainage. Drought-tolerant plants such as succulents and cacti are well-suited to these conditions. You can also use candle jars as rooting containers for propagated plant cuttings.
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Frequently asked questions
Place the candle jar in the freezer for a few hours. Then, remove the container from the freezer and flip it upside down on a folded kitchen towel. The wax should just pop out. Use a butter knife to gently pry the wax out if it needs a little help.
Succulents, cacti, and herbs are great options for candle jars. These plants are drought-tolerant and don't require much drainage.
Since most candle jars are ceramic or glass and would crack if you try to drill a drainage hole, you can add a natural form of drainage to the bottom of the jar, such as a layer of rocks or perlite.
Before cleaning out the wax, remove the label from the jar. You can do this by applying lemon essential oil or mineral oil and hot soapy water to the label and rubbing it with a cloth. You can also place the jar under a warm hair dryer for 30 seconds to a minute, then peel off the label.
