Bringing plants indoors or incorporating greenery outside can enhance the warm atmosphere of your home. However, the cost of plants, even artificial ones, can quickly accumulate. To introduce some vibrant life into your décor while keeping your expenses in check, here are several budget-friendly strategies. (See also: 6 Surprising Ways a Houseplant Can Save You Money)
Create DIY air plants
I recently visited a garden center where they were selling air plants nestled in seashells for $13 each—an eye-popping price if you know the separate costs involved. Air plants themselves can be found for under $4 on Amazon, and seashells are free if you collect them on a beach walk. Air plants thrive without soil but still need proper watering, sunlight, and care. For less than $10, you can purchase a pack of these unique plants and provide them with everything they need. (See also: 9 No-Fuss Plants That Will Brighten Your Home Until Spring)
Transform food and decorative jars into planters
Rather than discarding used candle jars, I clean them by placing them in boiling water for about a minute, then wipe out the residue and wash them with soap and warm water. Decorative candle jars can serve beautifully as planters.
You can also repurpose old food jars, with Oui by Yoplait yogurt containers being perfect candidates for mini planters. I appreciate these small jars; they come with foil lids instead of plastic ones, giving them a more refined look than typical jars.
Keep in mind that some plants prefer not to sit in excess water, so consider this when choosing planters without drainage holes.
Upcycle deep dishes and wooden boxes
Before discarding old dishes or wooden boxes, view them as potential planters. For example, I have a couple of deep, high-sided modern dishes from CB2 that have become chipped and are no longer usable for food serving. I’ve repurposed them as planters, placing the damaged side at the back to keep it hidden. They now add an attractive touch to my coffee table and mantle.
Explore the woods
Nature offers a treasure trove of plants and seeds, so why not take advantage of it by foraging in public woods to collect seeds or plants that will thrive in your garden? Make sure to do so responsibly and in moderation. Utilize apps or nature books to help identify plants that could be a good fit for your indoor or outdoor spaces.
Remember to avoid trespassing on private property and refrain from collecting from protected areas, such as state and national parks, as penalties can be severe.
Propagate from family plants
My grandmother had a spider plant that our family would frequently snip from to propagate new ones. This technique can be applied to various species, as detailed by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. (See also: 13 Simple Gardening Skills Anybody Can Master)
Browse Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and Letgo
While you’re on the lookout for budget-friendly plants, others might be giving theirs away.
“Searching through Craigslist or the ‘free’ sections of local Facebook groups can sometimes lead you to a lovely houseplant that just needs a little attention,” notes Vicky Popat, the owner of PlantOGram.com, which specializes in delivering fully grown plants. “In urban areas, you might even find a potted plant placed on the curb. Just be sure to check for pests before bringing anything new home.”
Investigate clearance sections
Just like other products, plants can be found on sale too. Explore local nurseries or big-box home improvement stores to discover good deals. Don’t hesitate to ask store personnel for assistance; they may know where the best bargains are! If the available choices aren’t the prettiest, consider whether a little care or replanting in a more attractive pot could revive their appearance. Often, trimming dead leaves, cleaning up the foliage, and a little plant food can work wonders.
Grow your own herbs
Herb seeds are inexpensive, and fully grown herb plants are often available at your local supermarket for around $3 to $7. These can infuse your indoor or outdoor areas with the vibrant touch you desire. Plus, growing your own herbs can lead to savings over time, as you can gather fresh herbs from your own garden. (See also: 6 Decorative Plants You Can Eat, Too)
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