Maddie James
There are many ways to repurpose candle containers, and one of the most popular ways is to use them as planters. This is a great way to upcycle candle containers instead of throwing them away, which often ends up contributing to environmental pollution. To repurpose a candle container into a planter, the first step is to clean out any old wax. This can be done by freezing the container and then chipping out the wax, or by placing the container in warm water and pouring out the wax once it has melted. After the container is clean, you can add drainage to the bottom of the jar, such as a layer of rocks, and fill one-third of the container with planting soil. Finally, you can add your plant of choice. Some good options for candle containers include succulents, cacti, herbs, small bromeliads, ivy, and annual flowering plants.
Plants to grow in candle containers
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Container type | Metal, glass, or ceramic |
| Drainage | Drill holes in metal containers; use rocks for drainage in glass or ceramic containers |
| Soil | Planting soil |
| Plants | Succulents, cacti, herbs, small bromeliads, ivy, annual flowering plants, trailing plants |
| Other uses | Rooting containers for cuttings from houseplants |
| Re-potting | Tap the container to loosen the soil and rotate it to remove the plant |
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What You'll Learn
How to clean out old candle containers
There are several ways to clean out old candle containers. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Using a Freezer
- Place the candle in the freezer for several hours or overnight until it is frozen.
- Use a butter knife to break up and pop out the wax. If the wax is soft, a spoon can also be used.
- Scrape off any remaining wax residue.
- Clean the container with dish soap and water.
Using Boiling Water
- Remove as much wax as possible with a knife or spoon.
- Place the candle on a protected surface or inside a pot/large metal bowl on a heat-safe surface.
- Pour boiling water into the container or around it, being careful not to get water into the candle jar.
- Let the jar sit until the wax softens.
- Remove the container from the water and pop out the wax.
- Wash the container with soap and water.
Using an Oven
- Scrape out as much wax as possible with a knife or spoon.
- Heat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
- Line a rimmed baking pan with aluminium foil or parchment paper.
- Place the candle jars upside down on the pan and put it in the oven for about 15 minutes until the wax melts.
- Remove the pan and place it on a heat-safe surface. Hold the container with a towel or pot holder and wipe the inside with a paper towel.
- Let the container cool, then clean it with soap and water.
Using a Microwave
If there are still small bits of wax in the container, place the container in the microwave for about 30 seconds (ensure the jar is microwave-safe). Afterward, wipe away the wax with a paper towel.
Once your candle containers are clean and free of wax, you can start thinking about which plants to put in them. Succulents, small bromeliads, ivy, herbs, and annual flowering plants are all great options for candle containers. If your container doesn't have drainage holes, remember to add a layer of perlite at the bottom before planting. You can also decorate your containers with rope, glitter, gravel, or other textured materials to give them a unique look.
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Choosing the right plants for your containers
First, ensure that your candle container is thoroughly cleaned and free of any wax residue. You can do this by freezing the container and then chipping out the old wax, or by placing it in warm water to melt the wax before pouring it out. It is important to have a clean vessel before planting.
Next, consider the drainage. If your container is metal, you can drill holes in the bottom for drainage. However, most candle containers are made of ceramic or glass, which can break when drilling. In this case, you can add a natural form of drainage, such as a layer of rocks, gravel, or perlite, at the bottom of the jar. This step is crucial as many plants do not thrive in overly wet conditions.
When choosing plants for your candle containers, select drought-tolerant varieties that do not require frequent watering. Succulents, cacti, and other low-moisture plants are excellent choices. Herbs, small bromeliads, ivy, and annual flowering plants are also suitable and add a decorative touch. Consider the size of your container and choose plants that will not outgrow it.
If you are feeling creative, you can decorate your containers before planting. Use a hot glue gun to attach rope, glue on faux flowers, or roll the container in glitter or textured material for a unique look. Personalise your containers to match your style or a specific event's décor.
Finally, fill your containers one-third of the way with planting soil and carefully place your chosen plants inside. Remember to monitor the soil moisture level, especially if your container does not have drainage holes, to ensure your plants receive the care they need.
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Drainage options for candle containers
Repurposing candle containers as planters is a great way to save money on pots and add a decorative touch to your space. However, one of the challenges of using candle containers for plants is the lack of drainage holes. Here are some drainage options to consider when planting in candle containers:
Double Potting
One solution to the drainage issue is to use the candle container as a decorative outer pot and place a smaller plastic nursery pot with drainage inside. Take the inner pot out to water and drain, then put it back inside the decorative candle container. This method ensures proper drainage without altering the candle container.
Layering with Stones or Pebbles
Another option is to create a drainage layer at the bottom of the candle container. Add a thick layer of small stones, pebbles, or perlite to the bottom of the container before filling it with soil. This layer will help excess water drain and prevent the plant roots from sitting in water.
Choosing Low-Moisture Plants
When planting in candle containers without drainage holes, it is essential to select plants that can tolerate drier conditions. Cacti, succulents, and other low-moisture plants are ideal for this purpose. Be mindful that overwatering can quickly lead to root rot in these plants, so always err on the side of underwatering.
Repotting at the First Sign of Distress
If you choose to plant directly into a candle container without drainage, be vigilant for any signs of distress in your plant. The first signs of yellowing leaves or wilting indicate that the plant is struggling with excess moisture. At this point, carefully remove the plant from the candle container and repot it into a new container with proper drainage.
While candle containers may not have built-in drainage, you can successfully use them as planters by implementing these drainage options. Remember to be mindful of the specific needs of your plants and always monitor their moisture levels to ensure their health and longevity.
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Decorating your candle containers
Now, you can begin to decorate your container. If the container is made of glass or ceramic, you cannot drill holes in the bottom for drainage. Instead, add a layer of rocks, gravel, or perlite to the bottom of the jar to create a natural form of drainage. If the container is metal, you can drill holes in the bottom for better drainage.
Next, consider the type of plants you want to put in your candle container. Succulents, cacti, herbs, small bromeliads, ivy, and annual flowering plants are all great options for candle containers. Choose a potting mix that will suit your plant's needs. You can also add a thick layer of mulch to the top of the soil, such as shredded bark, to give it a decorative touch.
Finally, let your creativity flow and personalise your candle container planter. You can attach rope around the holder with a hot glue gun, glue on faux flowers, or roll the container in glitter or textured material. These decorations will make your candle container unique and interesting. Once the decorations have set, you can add your plant and enjoy your new creation.
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Plants to avoid for candle containers
When choosing plants to avoid for candle containers, there are a few important factors to consider. Firstly, it is crucial to select plants that will not outgrow the container, as this can create an unbalanced and unstable situation. For example, avoid tall or wide-spreading plants that may tip over or become top-heavy.
Secondly, consider the moisture needs of the plant. Containers without drainage holes, such as those used for candles, may not be suitable for plants that require frequent watering or high moisture levels. Cacti and other succulents are ideal for candle containers as they thrive in low-moisture environments. Avoid plants that need consistently moist soil, such as peace lilies or ferns, as they will struggle in a container without adequate drainage.
Additionally, it is important to steer clear of plants with extensive root systems. The confined space of a candle container may restrict root growth, impacting the plant's health. Opt for plants with compact or shallow root systems, such as herbs or small flowering plants.
Another factor to consider is the weight of the plant. Some plants can become top-heavy as they grow, increasing the risk of the container toppling over. Avoid plants with a narrow base or those that tend to grow upwards without sufficient lateral growth to balance their weight.
Lastly, it is crucial to consider the material of the candle container. Avoid placing plants directly into porous containers, such as uncoated terracotta or certain types of thin ceramics, as these can absorb water and cause leakage. Similarly, metal tins with seams along the sides or bottoms may not hold up to frequent watering and could leak over time. Opt for non-porous containers made of glass, enamel, or concrete, which are sturdy and leak-proof.
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Frequently asked questions
There are two ways to do this. The first is to place the container in warm water and pour out the wax once it has melted. The second is to freeze the container and chip out the wax.
Avoid plants that like a lot of moisture, such as peace lilies or spider plants.
Succulents, cacti, herbs, small bromeliads, ivy, and annual flowering plants are all good options.
