19 DIY Plant Stand Ideas That Will Transform Your Green Space
Let’s be real—plants are great and all, but they look way better when they’re elevated, right? A lonely fern on the floor doesn’t exactly scream “style icon.” That’s where DIY plant stands come in.
I’ve spent way too many weekends testing out ideas (and a few failed experiments—don’t ask about the cactus incident).
The good news? You don’t need to break the bank or hire a carpenter.
With a little creativity, you can build something that’s both functional and Instagram-worthy. Here are 19 ideas that actually work and are fun to make.
1. Simple Wooden Box Stand
Sometimes the simplest idea is the best. Grab a wooden crate, flip it on its side, and voilà—you’ve got a rustic stand. I like stacking two crates for a mini plant tower. Bonus: perfect for displaying multiple plants without taking up floor space.
2. Ladder-Style Plant Stand
Ever looked at an old ladder and thought, “This would look amazing with greenery”? Ladder-style stands are a classic for a reason. Lean it against a wall and use each rung to hold pots. Height variation adds depth, making your plants pop.
3. Macramé Hanging Shelf
If you like a boho vibe, macramé shelves are gold. I hung one in my corner and suddenly my monstera feels like royalty. The best part? It frees up floor space while creating a floating garden effect.
4. Tiered Wooden Plant Stand
Tiered stands maximize vertical space. I built a three-level version from scrap wood, and it’s amazing for grouping plants of different sizes. Tip: Use sturdy wood so it doesn’t wobble—your philodendron will not forgive you if it topples.
5. Pipe and Wood Industrial Stand
Want an industrial touch? Combine metal pipes with wooden planks. It looks super chic, and assembling it is straightforward. IMO, this style works for both modern and rustic interiors.
6. Repurposed Stool Stand
Got an old stool collecting dust? Turn it into a plant stand. I painted mine white, and it instantly brightened the room. Small stools are perfect for single large plants, while taller ones can hold small collections.
7. Floating Wall Shelves
Why not put plants on the wall? Floating shelves are a space-saver and give a vertical garden feel. Just make sure to use wall anchors for heavier pots—your greenery deserves stability.
8. Wine Crate Stack
Wine crates are surprisingly versatile. Stack them in a pyramid or cube pattern for an eclectic look. I added wheels to mine for mobility. Pro tip: Secure them with brackets if you have curious pets or kids.
9. Geometric Stand
Triangle, hexagon, or diamond-shaped stands are visually interesting. I made a small geometric stand for succulents, and it’s my favorite coffee table centerpiece. Design matters almost as much as the plants themselves.
10. Repurposed Drawer Plant Stand
Got an old drawer? Remove the bottom and legs, then use it as a mini stand. Paint it a bold color for contrast. I tried this with a succulent garden, and it instantly looked curated rather than chaotic.
11. Wooden Crate on Legs
Elevate a crate by attaching hairpin or wooden legs. Suddenly, that humble crate feels boutique. Extra points: Line the inside with plastic if you worry about water damage.
12. Hanging Rope Plant Stand
Rope + wood plank = floating magic. I hung mine near a window, and the sunlight makes my plants look like they’re on display in a greenhouse. Safety tip: Always check knots and weight limits before putting a heavy plant up.
13. Corner Plant Ladder
Corners often get ignored. A corner ladder stand utilizes that dead space beautifully. I can fit three to four plants without cluttering the room, and it makes the corner a green highlight rather than a neglected spot.
14. Concrete Block Stand
Industrial minimalism alert. Concrete blocks with wooden planks on top = heavy-duty plant stands. I like them outside because they handle weather better than wood alone. Just don’t trip over them—it’s a hazard.
15. Repurposed Chair Stand
Old chairs with missing seats? Perfect opportunity. Remove the seat and add a plank or container, then place plants on top. It’s quirky, functional, and surprisingly chic. IMO, nothing says “DIY” like upcycling furniture.
16. Rotating Lazy Susan Stand
A lazy Susan works wonders for small plants or herbs. I use mine on a windowsill. Spin to give each plant equal sunlight exposure—your ferns will thank you.
17. Multi-Level Pallet Stand
Pallets are the unsung heroes of DIY. Stack or cut them to create multiple levels for your plants. I built one outside for my herb garden, and it’s been foolproof. Budget-friendly and surprisingly sturdy.
18. PVC Pipe Stand
PVC pipes are surprisingly versatile. I cut them to size and connected with T-joints for a modular plant stand. Lightweight, customizable, and perfect for experimenting with height and layout.
19. Hanging Basket Stand
If you want something dramatic, go for a hanging basket tree. I built one with three tiers of baskets suspended from a frame. It’s my personal favorite for a corner with low natural light—it turns plants into a sculptural statement.
Tips for DIY Plant Stand Success
- Measure twice, cut once – Basic, but honestly, it saves a lot of frustration.
- Consider plant weight – Make sure your materials can handle full-grown plants.
- Protect floors – Use trays or liners for water runoff.
- Group by light needs – Don’t place sun-lovers in a shadowy nook just because it looks cool.
- Have fun – A DIY stand should feel personal. Even “mistakes” can become unique features.
Final Thoughts
DIY plant stands aren’t just about elevating pots—they’re about elevating your space. Whether you go rustic with crates, chic with pipes, or whimsical with hanging baskets, these projects are affordable, customizable, and surprisingly easy. Start small, test ideas, and don’t be afraid to fail a few times—half the fun is in experimenting. In the end, nothing beats walking into a room and seeing your plants literally standing tall and proud because you made it happen.
So, which one are you trying first? I have a hunch the ladder-style stand is going to steal your heart—just don’t blame me if you start hoarding more plants than you have space for.
