Tyler Brooks
If you're looking for a way to repurpose your old candle containers, turning them into planters is a great option. This DIY project is simple, inexpensive, and allows you to put your own creative spin on it. Whether you're looking for a unique gift idea or simply want to brighten up your living space, candle planters can be a fun and eco-friendly way to showcase your favourite plants. With just a few steps and some basic materials, you can easily transform your old candle jars into charming miniature gardens.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To repurpose a used candle container |
| Steps | 1. Remove excess wax and wicks by freezing the container and then chipping out the wax, or by placing the container in warm water and pouring out the melted wax. 2. Drill a hole in the bottom of the container for drainage (optional). 3. Decorate the container as desired. 4. Fill one-third of the container with planting soil. 5. Choose a plant that will not outgrow the container and does not require frequent watering. |
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What You'll Learn
Removing wax from the candle container
To turn a candle container into a planter, you first need to remove the wax. Here are some methods to do this:
Freezing
Place the candle container in the freezer overnight or for a few hours. The wax will fully harden and should pop out easily. You can then gently tap the container upside down to remove the remaining wax.
Boiling Water
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Carefully place the candle container in the pot using tongs. The water level should be slightly lower than the height of the container. Once the wax has melted, remove the container from the pot and pour the wax into a disposable cup.
Warm Water
Place the candle container in warm water. Once the wax has melted, pour out the remainder.
After removing the wax, you may need to scrub the container with soap and water to ensure it is clean.
It is important to note that if you wish to add drainage holes to your planter, you should be careful not to drill into certain materials such as glass or ceramic as they may crack.
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Choosing the right plant
The type of plant you choose is also important. Since most candle jars are ceramic or glass, they do not have drainage holes. Therefore, it is best to choose drought-tolerant plants such as succulents and cacti, as they do not require frequent watering and can tolerate drier conditions. If you choose a plant that requires more moisture, you may need to create a drainage system by filling the bottom of the jar with pebbles, rocks, or glass beads to elevate the plant and allow for water drainage.
Another factor to consider is the light requirement of the plant. If your candle planter will be placed in a sunny spot, choose a plant that thrives in full sun or partial shade, depending on the lighting conditions. Some plants require more sunlight, while others prefer indirect light or shade. Additionally, consider the colour and scent of the plant. You can choose plants with colourful flowers or fragrant leaves to enhance the aesthetic and sensory appeal of your candle planter.
Lastly, think about the long-term maintenance of the plant. Select a plant that aligns with your care capabilities and time commitments. Some plants require more frequent watering, fertilizing, and pruning, while others are more low-maintenance. If you are a beginner, opt for hardier plants that are easier to care for, such as succulents or cacti. With the right plant choice, your candle planter will not only look beautiful but also thrive in its new home.
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Adding drainage
While it is ideal to drill a drainage hole in the bottom of a candle container, most candle jars are made of ceramic or glass and would crack if you try to drill into them. Therefore, you can add a natural form of drainage to the bottom of the jar.
Firstly, fill the bottom of the jar with pebbles, rocks, glass beads, or anything similar that will provide a space at the bottom for water to drain. This will allow you to see when your plant has plenty of water and help increase drainage. Adding a thin layer of horticultural charcoal over the rocks will also help with drainage.
If you are using a container without drainage, put a thick layer of perlite at the bottom of the container before you plant. Check manually to see where the soil moisture level is before watering, so that your plants do not become too wet.
When choosing plants to use in your upcycled candle planters, it is best to leave out moisture-loving plants and instead use drought-tolerant plants such as succulents and cacti.
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Decorating the planter
Now that you have cleaned out your candle jar and prepared it for drainage, it's time to decorate your planter!
A simple way to decorate your planter is to use rope. You can use a hot glue gun to attach rope around the holder. You can also use the glue gun to glue on faux flowers or other decorations. A quick trip to your local craft store will give you plenty of options for décor. You can also roll the container in glitter, gravel, or other textured materials to give it an interesting look.
If you want to add some colour, try painting your planter. You can use spray paint or a paintbrush and some acrylic paint. You can also try tie-dye or marble effects. If you want to get really creative, you can try decoupage, which involves gluing down paper cut-outs and sealing them with varnish.
Another way to decorate your planter is to add some personal touches. You can try engraving your name or a design onto the planter using a tool like a Dremel. You can also try bedazzling your planter with gems or stickers. If you're feeling extra creative, you can try carving a design into the planter using a lino cutter or a sharp knife.
Don't forget to let your decorations set before you attempt to plant. And there you have it! A beautifully decorated candle planter, ready for your favourite plant.
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Caring for the plant
Once you have transformed your candle into a planter, it's time to focus on caring for the plant. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure your plant thrives:
Choose the right plants
When selecting plants for your upcycled candle planter, opt for drought-tolerant varieties such as succulents and cacti. These plants don't require frequent watering and are well-suited to containers without drainage holes. Avoid moisture-loving plants that may suffer from the lack of drainage.
Create drainage
If your candle container is made of metal, you can create drainage holes by drilling into the bottom. However, if your container is made of glass or ceramic, drilling holes may cause it to crack and break. In such cases, it is recommended to create a natural form of drainage by filling the bottom of the jar with pebbles, rocks, or glass beads. This layer will elevate the soil, allowing excess water to drain and preventing root rot.
Soil selection
Choose a suitable potting mix or soil for your plant. Ensure it is well-suited to the type of plant you have selected. If you are unsure, seek advice from a gardening expert or refer to online resources for guidance on selecting the best soil for your specific plant.
Watering
If your planter does not have drainage holes, be cautious when watering your plant. Check the soil moisture level before watering to avoid overwatering. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Adjust your watering schedule based on the specific needs of your plant and the humidity and temperature conditions of your environment.
Fertilizer
Occasionally fertilize your plant to provide it with additional nutrients. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for proper dilution and application. Fertilizer can be applied during watering or directly to the soil, depending on the type of fertilizer you choose. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can burn the roots of your plant.
Light and humidity
Place your planter in an area that receives adequate sunlight for your plant's needs. Most plants require bright, indirect light, so find a spot near a window or in a well-lit room. Additionally, consider the humidity requirements of your plant. If it prefers higher humidity, you can create a humid environment by misting the leaves occasionally or placing the planter on a tray of pebbles and water.
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Frequently asked questions
You can either place the candle jar in a pot of boiling water and pour the melted wax into a disposable cup, or freeze the candle jar and chip the wax out.
If your planter is made of metal, you can drill holes in the bottom. However, if it is made of glass or ceramic, this will likely cause it to crack. Instead, you can add a layer of rocks, gravel, or glass beads to the bottom of the jar to allow for drainage.
Succulents and cacti are drought-tolerant and do not require a lot of water, so they are good options for planters with poor drainage.
You can use a hot glue gun to attach rope around the holder, glue on faux flowers, or roll the container in glitter, gravel, or another textured material.
