Maddie James
There are many ways to upcycle candle holders, and one of the most popular methods is to turn them into succulent pots. Succulents are easy to grow and can live indoors or outdoors, as long as they get plenty of sunlight. They are also drought-tolerant, so they are perfect for candle holders that do not have a drainage hole. To turn a candle holder into a succulent pot, the first step is to remove the excess wax and wick. This can be done by freezing the candle holder and then chipping out the wax, or by melting the wax and pouring it out. Once the wax is removed, the holder can be cleaned and filled with soil and succulents.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| First Step | Remove wax |
| Wax Removal Methods | Freeze the candle, then chip out the wax; place the candle in warm water, then pour out the wax; boil the candle and pour out the wax |
| Second Step | Clean the container |
| Third Step | Create a drainage hole |
| Drainage Hole Materials | Drill, glass/tile drill bit, masonry drill bit |
| Fourth Step | Add rocks |
| Fifth Step | Add potting soil |
| Sixth Step | Add succulents |
| Seventh Step | Water regularly |
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What You'll Learn
Removing wax from candle holders
To remove wax from candle holders, you can use one of the following methods:
Freezing
Place the candle holder in the freezer for a few hours. This will make the wax very hard and easier to remove. Once the wax is frozen, use a knife to chip away at it and break it up. You can then pull out the remaining wax and wick with pliers.
Boiling Water
Fill a pot with water and heat it on the stove until just before it starts to boil. Carefully place the candle holder in the pot using tongs, ensuring the water level is slightly lower than the height of the candle holder. The wax will start to melt, and you can then pour it out into a disposable container. The wick should come out at this stage, but if not, use tweezers or tongs to remove it. Wipe the inside of the container with an old rag or paper towel to remove any remaining wax residue. Be careful not to burn yourself, as the container will be hot. Wear gloves if necessary.
Oven
Turn your spent candle upside down in an oven-safe pan covered in foil. Place the pan in the oven at a low temperature (around 200 degrees Fahrenheit) until the wax is melted and has fallen out of the candle. Remove the pan from the oven and let the candle jar cool for a minute or two. Wipe the interior with a paper towel to remove any remaining wax.
Once you have removed all the wax and the container is clean, it is ready to be used as a planter.
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Choosing the right succulent
Drainage
First, consider whether your candle holder has drainage holes. Succulents do not require a lot of water, and too much moisture can cause their roots to rot. If your candle holder does not have drainage holes, succulents are a good choice as they can tolerate these conditions. You can also add rocks or gravel to the bottom of your planter to help with drainage.
Container material
The material of your candle holder can also impact the type of succulent you choose. Many candle holders are made from ceramic or glass, which can break if you try to drill drainage holes. In this case, it's best to choose low-moisture succulents such as cacti or other drought-tolerant varieties.
Container size
Consider the size of your candle holder when choosing a succulent. Succulents come in various sizes, from small, compact varieties to larger, more sprawling plants. Select a succulent that will fit well within the dimensions of your candle holder, allowing enough space for the plant to grow and spread out.
Light requirements
Succulents typically thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. Place your candle holder planter in an area that receives ample natural light, such as a windowsill or a well-lit room. Avoid direct sunlight for extended periods, as it can scorch the leaves of some succulent varieties.
Personal preference
Lastly, choose a succulent that appeals to your aesthetic preferences. Succulents come in a wide range of colours, shapes, and textures. Select a variety that complements the style of your candle holder and fits well with your overall decor. You can even add decorative elements, such as rope, faux flowers, or glitter, to personalize your planter further.
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Creating drainage
To create drainage in your candle holder, you must first consider the type of material it is made of. If the container is metal, you can drill holes in the bottom. However, if the candle holder is made of ceramic or glass, drilling holes will likely cause the container to break. In this case, you can use other methods to ensure proper drainage for your plant.
One way to create drainage in a candle holder without drilling holes is to use rocks or small stones. Place a layer of rocks at the bottom of the container, covering the drainage hole if there is one. The rocks will help to prop up the soil and allow excess water to drain, preventing root rot.
Another option for creating drainage is to use a saucer or plate underneath the candle holder. This method is suitable for containers without drainage holes, as it provides a place for the excess water to collect. Simply place the candle holder on top of the saucer or plate, ensuring that it is stable and secure.
If you are planting succulents or cacti, you can also create drainage by using well-draining soil specifically designed for these plants. Succulent soil is formulated to drain more quickly than regular potting soil, allowing excess water to escape and preventing root rot.
Additionally, you can create drainage by freezing the candle holder before planting. This method hardens any remaining wax, allowing it to be easily removed. Once the wax is removed, you can create a drainage hole in the bottom of the container using a drill or other sharp object.
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Adding soil and rocks
Now that your candle holder is clean and ready, it's time to add the soil and rocks to transform it into a succulent pot. Here are some detailed steps to guide you through the process:
Adding Rocks for Drainage
Before filling your candle holder with soil, it's important to create a drainage layer to prevent waterlogging, which can be harmful to succulents. Add a layer of small rocks or gravel at the bottom of your candle holder. Ensure the rocks are less than an inch high, providing enough space for soil and the succulent's roots. This layer will act as a drain, allowing excess water to collect at the bottom instead of saturating the soil.
Choosing the Right Soil
Select a well-draining potting mix suitable for succulents. You can find specific succulent soil mixes at garden centres or plant nurseries. Succulents prefer soil that drains well and doesn't retain too much moisture. If you're unsure about the type of soil to use, consider checking online resources or seeking advice from gardening experts.
Filling the Candle Holder with Soil
Gently fill your candle holder with the chosen potting mix. Leave enough space for the succulent's roots without overfilling the container. Press the soil down lightly to ensure it is compact and stable for planting. You can use a small spoon or your fingers to gently pat the soil into place.
Preparing the Succulent for Planting
Turn your succulent upside down and gently remove it from its original pot. Separate the soil from the roots, allowing the loose soil to fall back into its original pot. This step helps expose the roots and prepares the succulent for planting in its new home.
Planting the Succulent
Create a small hole in the centre of the soil to accommodate the roots of your succulent. Gently place the succulent in the hole and adjust the soil around it to ensure it is securely planted. Lightly water the replanted succulent, being careful not to overwater it. Succulents typically require watering about once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Your candle holder has now been successfully transformed into a succulent pot! Place your new planter on a small plate or directly on a windowsill, providing ample sunlight for your succulent to thrive. Enjoy your unique and personalised creation!
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Decorating the holder
Now that you have cleaned out your candle holder, it's time to decorate it! There are many ways to decorate your candle holder and make it your own. Here are some ideas:
Drill Holes
If your candle holder is made of metal, you can use a drill to make holes in the bottom for drainage. However, if your candle holder is made of ceramic or glass, drilling holes may cause it to break. In this case, you can use the candle holder for low-moisture plants such as cacti and succulents, which do not require as much drainage.
Rope and Flowers
Use a hot glue gun to attach rope around the holder for a rustic look. You can also glue on faux flowers or other decorative items to add some colour and interest.
Glitter and Gravel
Roll the outside of the candle holder in glitter, gravel, or another textured material to create a unique and eye-catching design. You can also use paint or other craft supplies to decorate the holder.
Rocks and Stones
Adding rocks or stones to the bottom of your candle holder can create a drainage layer, which is especially important for succulents. This will also give your planter a more natural and textured look.
Choose a Colourful Succulent
Succulents come in many varieties, so you can choose one that complements the colour and style of your candle holder. For example, a colourful succulent can pop against a simple, neutral-coloured holder.
Remember, you can find many decorative items at your local craft store to further personalize your candle holder turned succulent pot!
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Frequently asked questions
There are a few ways to do this. You can place the candle holder in a pot of boiling water, which will melt the wax, allowing you to pour it out. You can also freeze the candle holder, which will make the wax easier to chip out. Alternatively, you can melt the wax by lighting the wick and then pour it out.
Succulents and cacti are a great choice as they are drought-tolerant and don't require a lot of water. They are also easy to grow and can live indoors or outdoors.
First, create a form of drainage by adding rocks to the bottom of the candle holder. Then, add potting soil and succulents on top. Press the soil down gently and water regularly.
