Don’t know how to hang your indoor plants? You’re not alone! Choosing the right hangers for indoor plants is key to keeping your greenery happy and your space stylish. This guide breaks down the best options for every plant and décor, making it easy to find secure, beautiful solutions for your favorite green friends.
You’ve brought home a beautiful new plant, and you’re excited to give it a prime spot in your home. But where does it go? If you’re short on surface space or want to add a touch of living art to your walls, hanging plants is a fantastic idea! However, the thought of attaching something to your ceiling or walls for your precious plants can feel a little daunting. What type of hangers are best? How do you make sure they’re strong enough? Don’t worry, fellow plant lovers! We’re going to demystify the world of hangers for indoor plants, covering everything you need to know to hang your plants safely and beautifully. Get ready to elevate your indoor jungle!
Why Use Hangers for Indoor Plants?
Hanging plants isn’t just a trend; it’s a smart and stylish way to maximize your living space and bring nature indoors. For those of us with limited floor or shelf space, especially in apartments or smaller homes, hangers are a game-changer. They allow us to utilize vertical space, turning empty corners and blank walls into vibrant, green displays.
Beyond practicality, hanging plants adds a dynamic visual element to your décor. Trailing plants cascade down beautifully, creating a lush, bohemian feel, while upright plants can reach towards the light. They can also safely house plants that might be toxic to pets or out of the reach of curious little hands. Plus, a well-placed hanging plant can draw the eye, making your room feel more intentional and thoughtfully designed.
Understanding Different Types of Hangers for Indoor Plants
When it comes to keeping your plants suspended, there are more options than you might think! Each type of hanger serves a slightly different purpose and suits various plant sizes, weights, and aesthetic preferences. Let’s explore the most popular choices.
1. Macrame Plant Hangers
Macrame hangers are incredibly popular for their bohemian, handcrafted look. They are typically made from sturdy cotton or jute ropes knotted into intricate patterns that cradle your pot.
Pros:
Aesthetically pleasing and adds a cozy, artisanal touch.
Widely available in many styles and lengths.
Can accommodate a variety of pot sizes.
Relatively lightweight themselves.
Cons:
May not be suitable for extremely heavy pots without reinforced designs.
Can absorb water over time if the pot is damp, potentially weakening the material if not cared for.
Requires a strong ceiling hook or wall bracket to support the combined weight of the hanger, pot, and plant.
2. Metal Plant Brackets/Shelves
These are sturdy mounts that attach directly to a wall, providing a secure shelf or hook for a pot. They come in various designs, from simple L-shaped brackets to ornate shelves.
Pros:
Extremely strong and reliable for heavier plants.
Can be installed at various heights to create layered displays.
Minimalistic designs can blend into any décor.
Easy to clean.
Cons:
Requires drilling into walls, which might be an issue for renters.
Can look a bit industrial depending on the design.
Less forgiving if you want to move plants around frequently.
3. Ceiling Hooks with Chains or Cords
A classic choice, ceiling hooks, combined with chains or decorative cords, are a straightforward way to hang plants. You can also find specialized “pulleys” that allow you to lower and raise your plants for easier watering.
Pros:
Excellent for creating a “hanging garden” effect from the ceiling.
Chains can add an industrial or vintage touch.
Pulleys make watering and maintenance much easier.
Can support significant weight.
Cons:
Requires drilling into ceiling joists for secure installation.
Chains and cords can sometimes look less refined than macrame.
Plants are suspended at a fixed height, which might be inconvenient for very tall plants.
4. Wire or Metal Baskets/Holders
These are often designed to hold potted plants directly, with a built-in hanger or loop to attach to a hook. They can be simple wire cages or more elaborate designs.
Pros:
Offers good drainage and airflow around the pot.
Many designs are quite stylish and contemporary.
Can provide extra support for the pot itself.
Cons:
The pot might be visible, which could clash with some aesthetics if the pot isn’t decorative.
Weight capacity should be checked carefully.
5. Self-Watering Hangers
Some innovative hangers incorporate self-watering reservoirs, reducing the frequency of manual watering. These often involve a pot with a built-in water reservoir and a wicking system.
Pros:
Great for busy plant parents or those who tend to forget watering.
Keeps plants consistently hydrated.
Reduces the risk of over or under-watering.
Cons:
Can be more expensive than standard hangers.
Reservoir size dictates how often refilling is needed.
May not be suitable for all plant types (e.g., succulents and cactuses that prefer to dry out completely).
Choosing the Right Hanger for Your Plant and Space
Selecting the perfect hanger involves considering a few key factors: your plant’s weight, its watering needs, and your home’s aesthetic.
Weight Considerations
This is paramount! A beautiful macrame hanger won’t do much good if it snaps under the weight of a mature Monstera. Always consider the total weight: the pot, the soil (wet soil is heavier!), and the plant itself.
Lightweight Plants (e.g., Pothos, Spider Plants in small pots): Most macrame, wire, or simple cord hangers will work well.
Medium Weight Plants (e.g., smaller Ferns, ZZ Plants): Look for reinforced macrame, sturdy metal brackets, or well-installed ceiling hooks.
Heavy Plants (e.g., large Fiddle Leaf Figs, mature Bird of Paradise): Sturdy metal brackets screwed into wall studs or securely mounted ceiling hooks are your best bet. You might even consider a shelf designed to hold a heavier pot.
A good rule of thumb for choosing a hook or bracket is to opt for one rated for a weight significantly higher than you estimate your plant to be. Commercial drywall anchors are generally not sufficient for hanging plants; always aim to screw into a wall stud or a ceiling joist. For help locating studs, you can use a stud finder, or a simple trick is to tap on the wall – it will sound hollow where there isn’t a stud and more solid where there is. You can also check common stud finder resources for more advanced techniques.
Aesthetic Preferences
Your hangers are part of your décor!
Bohemian/Natural: Macrame is a winner here.
Modern/Minimalist: Sleek metal brackets or simple, thin cord hangers work best.
Industrial/Edgy: Exposed chains or sturdy metal wire holders can complement this style.
Eclectic/Vintage: Wrought iron brackets or unique, repurposed materials can add character.
Plant Type and Watering Needs
Consider how you water your plants.
Plants Needing Frequent Watering: A self-watering hanger might be ideal, or ensure your chosen setup allows easy access for watering without a big mess.
Plants Preferring Dry Spells (e.g., succulents): Avoid any system that might trap moisture around the pot for too long. Ensure good airflow.
Trailing Plants (e.g., String of Pearls, Ivy): Most hangers work well, with macrame and ceiling hooks offering beautiful cascading displays.
DIY Hangers for Indoor Plants: Creative & Budget-Friendly Ideas
You don’t always need to buy a fancy hanger! Many DIY projects can create unique and functional solutions for your indoor plants.
1. Upcycled Tin Can Hangers
What you’ll need: A clean tin can (large soup or coffee can works well), a drill, strong twine or wire, and optional decorative paint.
How-to:
1. Drill three or four equidistant holes around the top rim of the can.
2. Thread strong twine or wire through the holes, creating a sturdy cradle for your pot inside the can. Double up the twine or wire for extra strength.
3. Gather the ends of the twine/wire at the top and tie them securely to form a hanging loop.
4. Decorate the can if desired before placing your pot inside.
5. Hang from a secure hook.
2. Simple Rope Hanger (no macrame skills needed!)
What you’ll need: Strong rope (cotton, jute, or nylon), scissors, and a secure hook.
How-to:
1. Cut four equal lengths of rope.
2. To create a “net” effect, you can tie simple knots about a foot down each strand.
3. Place your pot in the center.
4. Bring the ends of the ropes up and around the rim of the pot, ensuring it’s held securely.
5. Gather all four rope ends together and tie a very strong loop knot for hanging.
This method is simple and effective, especially for medium-sized pots. More detailed tutorials can be found on gardening blogs and DIY websites, often featuring visual guides that make the process even clearer.
3. Repurposed Basket or Colander
What you’ll need: A sturdy basket or a metal colander with handles, strong rope or S-hooks.
How-to:
1. If using a basket, ensure it’s deep enough to hold your pot securely. You might want to line it to prevent soil loss.
2. If using a colander, you can thread rope through the handles or attach S-hooks to hang it.
3. Place your potted plant inside.
4. Attach rope loops or S-hooks to the handles/rim and hang from a sturdy ceiling hook.
This is a quick way to give a new life to everyday objects and create a unique hanging planter.
Installation: Making Sure It’s Secure
This is where the real magic happens – and where you need to be extra careful. A beautiful hanger is useless if it fails. Always prioritize safety and structural integrity.
1. Locate Studs or Joists
Walls: Use a stud finder. If you don’t have one, gently tap the wall while listening for a solid sound (stud) versus a hollow sound. Mark your findings.
Ceilings: While more challenging, ceiling joists are typically spaced 16 or 24 inches apart. If unsure, consult a building guide or a handy neighbor. For significant weight, a professional might be advisable. A great resource for understanding home construction basics, including stud placement, is found on sites like This Old House.
2. Choose the Right Hardware
For Studs/Joists: Use strong wood screws or lag screws at least 2-3 inches long to screw your hook or bracket directly into the solid wood. Pre-drilling a pilot hole slightly smaller than your screw can make installation easier and prevent wood splitting.
Drywall Anchors (Use with EXTREME Caution!): For very light plants and carefully selected heavy-duty anchors (like toggle bolts or molly bolts), these can work. However, they are inherently less secure than screwing into wood. Never use standard plastic expansion anchors for hanging plants. It’s always better to find a stud.
Ceiling Hooks: Ensure they are rated for overhead use and have a substantial screw thread to go deep into the joist. Eyebolts or specifically designed swing hooks are good options.
3. Installation Steps (General):
1. Mark: Hold your bracket or hook in the desired position and mark where the screws will go.
2. Pre-drill (Highly Recommended): Drill pilot holes at your marks. The size of the pilot hole depends on the screw size; generally, about half to two-thirds the diameter of the screw.
3. Attach: Drive the screws firmly into the stud or joist until the bracket or hook is flush and secure against the wall or ceiling. Give it a good tug to test its stability before hanging your plant.
4. Test: Before placing your plant, hang something of similar weight (like a filled water jug) from the hanger for a few hours to ensure it holds.
Hanger Maintenance and Plant Care
Just like your plants, your hangers might need a little TLC to keep them looking good and functioning well.
Macrame: Occasionally, you might want to gently brush or vacuum your macrame hangers to remove dust. If they get damp from watering, allow them to air dry thoroughly. Over time, fibers can weaken, so inspect them for wear and tear, especially if you have heavier plants.
Metal Brackets/Chains: A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. For any rust spots, you can gently sand them and touch up with a metal-friendly paint if needed.
General: Keep an eye on the installation point. Sometimes, the weight of a mature plant can cause very subtle shifting in drywall or plaster over time. It’s good practice to re-check the security of your hooks and brackets periodically.
Choosing the Right Pot for Hanging Plants
The pot you choose has a big impact, not just on aesthetics but also on the overall weight and how well your plant thrives.
Lightweight Materials: Terracotta, plastic, and fabric grow bags are lighter than ceramic or concrete pots, making them ideal for hangers.
Drainage: Ensure your pot has drainage holes. Plants that sit in constantly wet soil are prone to root rot, regardless of how well they are hung.
Size: Don’t put a tiny plant in a massive pot when hanging. It adds unnecessary weight and can lead to overwatering. Choose a pot size appropriate for the current root ball, with a little room to grow.
Saucer Considerations: If using a pot without a built-in saucer, consider if you need a separate one. Some metal hangers might not be waterproof, and drips can damage surfaces. Look for pots with attached saucers or be prepared to catch drips.
Troubleshooting Common Hanger Issues
Even with the best intentions, you might run into a few snags. Here are some common problems and how to solve them:
Wobbly Hook: This usually means it wasn’t installed into a stud or joist securely. Remove it, find a solid anchor point, and re-install with longer, thicker screws.
Macrame Stretching/Sagging: If the macrame is visibly stretching, it may be overloaded. Consider transferring the plant to a sturdier hanger or bracket, or to a lighter pot.
Water Dripping: If water is dripping onto your floors or furniture, you might need a pot with a better saucer, or consider placing a stylish tray or mat underneath, especially for plants that you water in place before they’re hung.
Uneven Hanging: If the pot tilts, adjust the knotting on a macrame hanger, or try to find a more balanced way to attach the pot to the hanger system. Sometimes, distributing the weight by having multiple attachment points can help.
Beyond the Basics: Creative Ways to Use Plant Hangers
Once you’ve mastered the basic hanging of your green friends, get creative!
Cluster Displays: Group several plants at varying heights. This creates a stunning visual impact and a mini-ecosystem. Use different types of hangers for added interest.
Window Gardens: Hang plants in front of windows to catch maximum light without blocking views entirely.
Room Dividers: Use hanging plants to create subtle divisions between spaces in an open-plan home.
Illuminating Dark Corners: Bring life and color to less-used or darker areas of your home by strategically placing plants that tolerate lower light conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Hangers for Indoor Plants
What’s the simplest way to hang an indoor plant?
The simplest way is often a macrame hanger with a strong ceiling hook screwed into a joist. They require minimal assembly and are widely available.
How much weight can a typical plant hanger hold?
This varies greatly. Light macrame hangers might support only 5-10 lbs, while heavy-duty metal brackets can hold 30-50 lbs or more. Always check the product’s weight rating.
Can I hang plants in my apartment if I can’t drill into walls or ceilings?
Yes! You can use tension rod plant hangers that fit between floor and ceiling, or furniture-mounted plant hangers that attach to shelves. Some standing plant stands also have arms designed for hanging pots.
How do I keep my plants from dripping water everywhere when they’re hanging?
Use pots with attached saucers, or place a decorative tray directly underneath the pot. For very delicate surfaces, consider a small, waterproof mat.
What’s the best type of hanger for a very heavy plant?
For heavy plants, a robust metal wall bracket securely screwed into a wall stud is usually the most reliable. Ensure the bracket is rated for the plant’s total weight.
Do I need special tools to install plant hangers?
For secure installations (into studs/joists), you’ll typically need
