10 Creative Plant Displays Using Suspended Hangers

Has your living room plant collection outgrown its windowsill space? Imagine turning unused airspace into a lush, floating oasis—all while adding style, vibrancy, and a personal touch to your home. Suspended hangers aren’t just practical solutions for displaying greenery in small apartments; they’re also a sure way to inject playfulness, creativity, and vertical drama into any room. Ready to go beyond the basics? Here are 10 inspiring plant hanging ideas, complete with step-by-step guides, professional tips, and solutions for every skill level and budget.

Before You Begin

• Pick the Right Spot: Consider natural light, ceiling strength, and how the display complements your flow and furniture. Higher ceilings and corners near windows work best.
• Safety First: Secure hangers into studs or use appropriate anchors for drywall. Avoid placing heavy plants directly above frequently used walkways or electronics.
• Supplies Prep: Lay out all your materials before starting each project—cord, hooks, pots, and decorative accents.
• Mood Board: Create a collage of display styles, color palettes, and textures you love. Pinterest is your friend!

Good to Know: Key Terms & Visual Foundations

• Color Scheme: Combine 3-5 complementary shades. Popular: sage + ivory + gold; blush + moss + charcoal.
• Texture Layers: Mix rope, wood, and ceramics for a rich sensory effect. See the mood board below for combinations that pop.

1. Boho Macramé Hanging Planters (★☆☆ – 45 min/each)

Why it works: Macramé adds artisanal warmth and intricate texture, making even simple pots stand out as chic statement pieces. Perfect for renters and lovers of boho-chic style.

• Cotton or jute cord in natural or colored tones
• Scissors, tape measure, basic pot
• Suspension hook rated for desired weight

1. Cut six cords, each about 2 meters long.
2. Knot them together at one end, then divide into pairs and knot every 20 cm.
3. Create two more rows of knots, offsetting the pattern for a net effect.
4. Place your pot inside the net and tie at the top.
5. Attach a secure ceiling hook and suspend!

• Variation: Dye the cord with pastel natural dyes for a custom palette.
• Tip: Use a removable adhesive hook in rentals—no holes required!

FAQ: Always check weight limits of both cord and hook.

2. Minimalist Wooden Shelf Hanger (★★☆ – 1 hour)

Why it works: A suspended shelf lets you display multiple plants with modern appeal—great for small spaces and easy to switch up for every season.

• Wooden shelf (plank with holes drilled in four corners)
• Strong cotton rope or leather cord
• 2 ceiling hooks, plants in matching pots

1. Thread rope ends through each corner and knot securely underneath the shelf.
2. Gather four rope ends, ensuring the plank hangs parallel.
3. Knot above the shelf and attach to hooks in ceiling, leveled out.
4. Add a mix of trailing and upright plants for visual interest.

• Variation: Paint the shelf in a bold accent color or use reclaimed wood for a rustic look.
• Pro Tip: Group plants by sun and watering needs to keep care simple.

3. Geometric Brass Ring Display (★☆☆ – 30 min)

Why it works: Brass rings echo mid-century modern and art deco style while creating a striking, floating focal point—especially against white walls.

• Brass or gold-painted metal ring (20–30 cm diameter)
• Air plants (tillandsia), twine, optional beads

1. Wrap twine or metallic thread around the ring to create a “nest”.
2. Tuck air plants securely into the woven web.
3. Attach a loop at the top and hang on a small hook or wall-mounted peg.

• Variation: String several rings at staggered heights for wow effect.
• Tip: Mist air plants with water weekly—they require no soil!

4. Repurposed Kitchen Colander Hanger (★★☆ – 40 min)

Why it works: Upcycling unexpected items like a vintage colander brings whimsy and eco-friendly flair to your decor—perfect for cottagecore or eclectic homes.

• Metal or enamel colander
• Strong chain or macramé cord, ‘S’ hooks
• Trailing plants (pothos, ivy, string-of-pearls)

1. Feed cord or chain through opposing holes and knot or secure with ‘S’ hooks.
2. Add a coconut coir liner if using soil, or pop pots directly inside.
3. Hang from a ceiling hook near a window for best results.

• Variation: Paint the colander bright yellow, teal, or copper.
• Safety Note: Double-check colander’s weight capacity before hanging.

FAQ: Not for heavy, dense plants; best for lightweight trailing varieties.

5. Floating Test Tube Propagation Wall (★★★ – 90 min)

Why it works: Sleek glass test tubes allow for minimalist plant propagation and ever-changing green “art”—ideal for modern or Scandinavian spaces and educational for kids.

• Test tube set with wall-mountable rack or a wood panel
• Clear fishing line, ceiling or wall anchors
• Cuttings of vines or leafy stems (philodendron, monstera, herbs)

1. Install test tube rack on a floating panel attached from the ceiling (or vertically to the wall for renters).
2. Fill tubes with water, insert plant cuttings.
3. Suspend from ceiling at staggered heights for a sculptural look.

• Variation: Wrap twinkle lights around the display for a magical night effect.
• Tip: Replace water and recut stems every 2 weeks for healthy growth.

6. Hanging Terrarium Globes (★★☆ – 1 hour)

Why it works: Glass globes create tiny, living dioramas, ideal for succulents and mini ferns. They sparkle in sunlit windows and add a sense of wonder to any room.

• Glass terrarium globes (with hanging loop)
• Small pebbles, activated charcoal, succulent soil, plants
• Twine or metallic cord

1. Layer pebbles, charcoal, and soil in globe.
2. Plant mini succulents and decorate with tiny stones or moss.
3. Thread cord through the loop, knot securely, and hang at eye level.

• Variation: Group 3–5 globes at different heights for visual movement.
• Tip: Don’t overwater—use a spray bottle to mist if unsure.

7. Wall-Mounted Plant Hanger Row (★☆☆ – 45 min)

Why it works: Vertical rows use empty wall space for a mini indoor jungle. Great above beds, workspaces, or kitchen counters.

• Wall-mounted rail, curtain rod, or reclaimed wood dowel
• S-hooks or looped rope hangers
• Matching small planters

1. Secure rod to the wall at desired height.
2. Hang planters using S-hooks or macramé slings.
3. Display a mix of herbs, easy-care greens, or flowering houseplants.

• Variation: Spray-paint rod a metallic hue, or wrap with rope for a rustic effect.
• Tip: Rotate plants seasonally to refresh the display.

8. Upcycled Hanging Baskets (★☆☆ – 30 min)

Why it works: Wicker and rattan baskets bring organic texture and warmth. Upcycling saves money and keeps beautiful vintage items in circulation.

• Lightweight baskets with strong handles
• Chain or cord for suspension
• Plastic liners or drop-in pots

1. Drill or tie cords onto handles for extra support.
2. Insert liner or ready-potted plant to avoid water damage.
3. Hang in unused corners or in “plant clusters” for drama.

• Variation: Add tassels or paint basket rims for a pop of color.
• Tip: Ideal for spider plants and ferns that enjoy moist roots.

9. Modern Hoop Planter Array (★★☆ – 90 min)

Why it works: Sleek hoops, when grouped in multiples, create a floating wall sculpture. This modern, airy style accentuates the plants and doubles as geometric art.

• Large embroidery hoops or thin metal rings (various sizes)
• Small planters with clips or cords
• Metallic or colored paint (optional)

1. Paint hoops for coordinated effect or leave natural for minimalist vibe.
2. Attach plant pots with clips/cords at the hoop base.
3. Arrange and suspend hoops at varying heights and distances.

• Variation: Use neon or metallic finishes for a statement wall.
• Tip: Use lightweight pots—avoid heavy ceramic or clay without solid anchors.

10. Macramé-Ladder Hanging Garden (★★★ – 2 hours)

Why it works: Combining macramé knots with wooden dowels creates a ladder-like multi-level display—showstopping and highly efficient for displaying many small to medium plants in a column.

• 2-3 wood dowels (50–80 cm each), thick cotton rope, scissors
• Pots with sturdy lips for hanging
• Ceiling hook or bracket

1. Knot rope into a wide “ladder” shape, tying dowels horizontally every 30 cm.
2. Secure pots with smaller macramé slings to each level.
3. Hang entire ladder vertically from the ceiling.
4. Arrange plants by size/weight, with smallest at the top.

• Variation: Add fairy lights along the ropes for evening magic.
• Tip: Perfect for stairwell landings or tall windows.

Quick Ideas for Instant Updates

• Mix and match plant heights for added depth
• Group 3–5 hanging vessels in a single color family (sage, blush, sand)
• Drape trailing plants like pothos near picture walls for lush layering
• Use leather cords or painted chains instead of rope for an upscale look
• Attach a tiny chalkboard tag to each pot for plant care reminders

Before & After: Real Transformations

• Studio Apartment Bay Window:
  Before: Window ledge covered in mismatched pots.
  After: Four glass globes staggered at different heights, with woven baskets below, instantly transformed the space—cost: $60, time: 2 hours.
• Rental Kitchen Nook:
  Before: Bare, unused corner.
  After: Macramé-ladder with herbs and a mini shelf hanger. All removable for easy move-out—budget: $45, completion: 1.5 hours.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Problem: Plants wilt quickly.
  Solution: Ensure appropriate light—hang near windows and choose species for your specific exposure (e.g., snake plant for low-light, succulents for bright).
• Problem: Water drips after watering.
  Solution: Use liners or drip trays inside hanging baskets and never overwater.
• Problem: Hangers pull out of the ceiling.
  Solution: Always anchor into studs or use toggle bolts for drywall; check weight limits.
• Problem: Visual clutter.
  Solution: Limit color palette and vary plant heights for a cohesive, layered effect.

Seasonal Refresh Ideas

• Switch pots to seasonal colors (terra cotta for fall, blush and mint for spring)
• Add decorative accents like pinecones or ornaments in winter, or faux butterflies in summer
• Change plant selection—swap in blooming plants for spring, trailing evergreens for winter

Let’s Make the First Step Together!

Suspended hangers are more than just functional—they’re a playful, expressive way to bring green life into every corner of your home, regardless of size or style. Whether you’re drawn to the boho macramé look, love minimalist shelves, or want to make a statement with geometric shapes, each idea can be adapted for your unique taste and space.

Start your DIY plant hanger journey this weekend, and see how quickly your space transforms! Once you’ve tried out these ideas, let us know in the comments below: How did this article help or inspire you? What did you feel was missing? What would you add? We take your feedback seriously and truly appreciate every message you leave.