Step-by-Step Instructions for a DIY Succulent Mason Jar

When creating a DIY succulent planter, there are certain steps you need to take to help ensure your plant stays healthy. Complete with fun decor ideas, here’s how to properly plant a mason jar succulent!

Step 1: Clean the Mason Jar

Once you’ve gathered all the materials you need to create your Mason jar planter, begin by cleaning the jar with mild, non-toxic soap and water—this is important as fungi, microbacteria, and insects can stay on old containers and accumulate debris that could harm your new plant. With this specific succulent planter idea, it’s best to use purified water, as the mineral deposits in tap water may leave long-lasting marks on your jar. After thoroughly washing the jar, leave it out to dry.

Step 2: Fill 1/4 of Jar with Small Pebbles

Before preparing and placing soil in your jar, line the bottom of the jar with small pebbles to allow for better drainage and help prevent root rot. This is a crucial step when planting succulents in glass jars, as Mason jars don’t have built-in drainage holes like other planters often do. Using smaller pebbles is recommended, as larger rocks can actually block drainage and cause water to collect.

Step 3: Prepare the Soil

It’s important to ensure you have the right soil for your succulent before you begin potting. Avoid using only standard potting soil, as it may contain ingredients aimed to help retain moisture—and due to succulents’ natural desert environment, they thrive around less humidity. Succulent-specific soils are a good option, though you can also opt to DIY your own mix of soil, sand, and perlite—be sure to wear respiratory protection when handling perlite. Additionally, consider adding activated charcoal to your mix, which can help control moisture levels and prevent mold growth. Before planting your succulent in the jar, be sure to lightly moisten its soil. After putting the dampened succulent potting mix in your jar, poke a hole in the soil deep enough to accommodate your succulent’s roots.

Step 4: Plant Your Succulent

With the soil prepared, you can plant your succulent in the jar! If it came in a different pot, tilt the pot slightly and carefully slide the succulent out, giving the pot some taps as necessary to loosen the plant. If your succulent is in a plastic cell pack, squeeze the bottom of the pack, and push the succulent out. Prepare your succulent to be planted by thoroughly rinsing its roots, especially if old or excess soil is left on it. When you’re ready to plant your succulent, lower it into the center of your jar. Ensure your succulent’s root ball is submerged, and cover all the roots with soil. Then pat down the top layer of soil with your fingers until it’s flat.

Step 5: Decorate Your Mason Jar

Whether you plan to keep and use your succulent as decor in your own home or gift it to someone else, consider decorating the jar to give it some unique flair! A popular Mason jar decoration idea is to paint the jar’s exterior with chalk paint or spray paint—but it all depends on the type of finish you want your jar to have. Apply your selected paint to the lip of the jar first and allow it to dry, then apply at least three coats of paint on the exterior to ensure full coverage. Additionally, consider tying a ribbon or twine around the jar to make it stand out. If you’re gifting the mason jar, you might also attach a tag with succulent care tips—this is especially useful if the recipient doesn’t have prior experience with plants.

Succulent Decor Ideas For Your Home

While succulents are low-maintenance plants, it’s crucial to look after your new houseplant and maintain its longevity. Water it as needed, check the soil to avoid over-saturation, monitor it regularly for signs of dehydration, and ensure it gets bright, indirect sunlight. As you care for your succulent, consider incorporating these decor tips into your home!

Hang Succulent Plant As Wall Decor

Hanging succulents as wall decor is a unique way to level up any room of your house! One idea to consider is creating a wall planter—attaching your succulent to a wooden board. Screw or hammer the wood board to your wall in a spot with access to ample sunlight. Add decor like potting mix, and tighten the clamps to keep your mason jar in place. Make sure you consider your planter’s weight before gathering the necessary supplies. Alternatively, you could place your succulent in tins if you’re worried about the weight of your mason jar.

Decorate Your Jar & Place Outdoors

Decorating your mason jar succulent is a popular way to make it your own. Consider adding glass rocks at the bottom of your jar before repotting your plant for extra drainage. You could also make your jar stand out by painting the jar and adding designs on the exterior. Once your jar is dry and your plant is repotted, consider placing it outside on your patio or as a centerpiece for your patio table—make sure your succulent is not directly in the sun to avoid overexposure and damage.

Hang Succulents Outside

An alternative to placing your succulent outside is to hang it in your backyard or patio area. Research mason jar succulent holders that are suited for your jar’s weight or consider knitting or crocheting a macrame-style plant holder. If necessary, tie it around a tree branch, or an area with bright, indirect sunlight for extra support.

Place Succulents Around the Living Room

If you’re worried about direct sunlight exposure, another option is to place your succulent around your living room area. A mason jar succulent may be a good corner piece decoration for your coffee table, end table, or bookshelf. Make sure to place it in a spot—such as near a south or east-facing window—so it can receive ample sunlight.

Use Succulents As Dining Room Centerpiece

If you’re unable to find space outside or in your living area, your succulent may also be an ideal dining room decoration. A mason jar succulent centerpiece can help brighten up your dining room table and make it unique. Consider placing your jar in a weight-appropriate container or holder for extra flair.

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