Turn a real coconut shell into a unique, sustainable DIY planter. This easy garden craft uses an assortment of succulents, including sedum and donkey tails, to create a tropical hanging planter perfect for small outdoor spaces.
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I have been on a fresh coconut kick lately. The last one I opened cracked in the most perfect way, leaving a natural opening destined for an outdoor craft moment. At first, I considered turning it into a bird feeder. But since we stop feeding the birds once the weather warms up and let them rely on natural food sources like plants and insects (while still keeping bird baths filled with fresh water), I decided to go a different direction. With garden season in full swing, I knew the next best option was turning this coconut shell into a planter instead.
Since the coconut shell is on the smaller side, I knew I needed to choose shallow-rooted plants. Succulents were an easy choice. They’re compact, low-maintenance, and bring an extra tropical vibe that fits the shell perfectly. I already have String of Pickles and String of Dolphins growing, so I wanted to fill this planter with a few different varieties. So off to the local garden center I went to hunt for plants that would fit this unique planter idea.
Once I settled on succulents, it was time to prep the coconut shell. I gently sanded both the inside and outside, and also evened out the bottom edge. Next, I drilled a few small drainage holes in the base to help prevent excess moisture from collecting - very important to prevent the succulents from getting root rot. Finally, I added a couple larger holes at the top so I could thread twine through for hanging.
DIY Coconut Shell Succulent Planter
Before planting, I also made some final preparations including rubbing the entire shell with mineral oil. This brings out its rich brown color along with its natural grain. While the oil doesn't serve longtime protection and will need to be reapplied if using to protect it from outdoor elements.
With the shell prepped, I threaded twine through the top holes and created a loop for hanging. I triple-knotted the twine to ensure the knot would hold under the weight of the succulents and soil.
Then, it was time to plant the succulents. I bought a Love's Fire succulent for its pretty red-tinted leaves and a donkey tails succulent for its trailing habit. While you can buy potting mix specifically for cacti and succulents, I added sand to regular potting soil to create my own mix.
I filled the bottom of the coconut shell with my soil mix and gently tucked in my succulents, making sure the donkey tails were right in front so they trail nicely over the edge of the shell. Then, I watered the succulents.
I felt that the planter looked unfinished, so I decided to tuck dried sphagnum moss around the succulents. Not only does the moss make this planter look complete, but it also provides structural support for the succulents and prevents soil loss.
I hung the coconut shell in a sunny place in my herb garden. I will have to bring this planter in during the winter months, but for now it'll make a nice addition to our backyard throughout the warmer months.
SUPPLIES
- Empty cracked coconut shell half
- Sandpaper, or file
- Drill
- Succulent potting mix
- Succulents
- Twine, or nautical rope
- Optional: mineral oil
- Optional: dried sphagnum moss
STEPS
- Make sure the inside of your coconut shell is clean. Then, give the inside and outside of the shell a light sanding to smooth it out.
- Drill small drainage holes in the bottom. Then, drill a couple slightly larger holes on top to thread twine through.
- Thread the rope through the top of the coconut shell and create a loop for hanging. Tie it tight to knot and secure it.
- Add succulent mix into the shell. Then, position and plant succulents in place.
- If desired, tuck dried sphagnum moss around the succulents.
- Lightly water the succulents and place the planter in a sunny spot in your yard (or in a window with bright light indoors).
This coconut shell succulent planter is a fun upcycle project that gives new life to something that would otherwise be tossed. It's a simple, eco-friendly craft with a tropical vibe that fits perfectly into summer decor. Whether you hang it in a window or display it in your yard, it's a sustainable way to add something unique and handmade to your outdoor space.
Did you make this DIY Coconut Shell Succulent Planter project? Share it on social media using the hashtag #holokahome. Don’t forget to tag me @holokahome!
