Grow Cute Succulents With This DIY Upcycle For Broken Vases

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We all know the moment — a bump, and then time seems to slow as your freshly picked flowers and the vase that holds them teeter off balance and sail toward the floor, followed by a heart-stopping crash. Breaking your favorite vase comes with a unique sadness that isn't always deep but sure does sting. This DIY upcycle for vases uses the broken-out section of the vase to grow succulents in. It's not only a way to redeem your vase but also an unusual way to incorporate ceramic art in your home.

To upcycle your vase, you'll need cacti plants that have roots and are ready to be potted. You'll also need potting soil that succulents will thrive in, which means good drainage, low organic content, and aeration to promote healthy root growth. Buying soil specifically for succulents, such as Hoffman Organic Cactus and Succulent Soil Mix, will help make your upcycle a success. 

A vase won't have any drainage holes, so it's essential that you create some by following the easiest way to add drainage holes to your plant pots. Next, fill the bottom of the vase with soil up to the lower edge of the broken section. Working carefully, start stacking your succulents vertically, with their roots growing into the vase and their leaves facing out. As you continue, keep adding layers of potting soil, alternating with plants and soil. Continue until you reach the rim, and then fill the horizontal mouth of the vase with succulents.

Succulents are some of the most creative plants you can grow, thanks to their interesting leaves, patterned arrangements, and jewel-like colors. Before picking your plants, check which succulents are happy in your USDA hardiness zone, or propagate from those already growing in your garden. Another aspect to consider before is whether you'll be placing your planter indoors or outdoors. While succulents may seem like tough little plants, they do have specific needs that have to be met for them to thrive. 

Another fun twist for this upcycle is to move away from planting only one type of cactus. Change it up and look for variations in leaf shapes, foliage patterns, textures, and flowering habits. Feel free to play with colors, too. There are many colorful succulents that will thrive indoors and outdoors, depending on your zone. Even if you stick to green, cacti come in a variety of subtle shades that add depth and visual appeal. 

While they're easier to work with, this upcycle isn't just for big vases. Small vases get damaged too, and when they do, go miniature. While it might be tricky to work on such a small scale, the end result will be delightful. Making smaller spilling succulent planters means you get to place these tiny succulents on your desk to improve your health and focus, or give them away as extra special gifts to those who appreciate living presents with an eye-catching, creative touch.