I recently stumbled across this unique succulent chair by Sandra Nelson, a fellow blogger at Art In The Garden. Susan found this retro style chair at a thrift store and was drawn to the shiny chrome frame. Although there are no before pictures, the photo shows Susan cut off the less-than-fabulous material and replaced the form with chicken wire.
As with any wire container, you must keep the soil from seeping through the holes by filling them with dampened sphagnum moss (note: don’t buy sphagnum peat moss). Be sure to press the pieces firmly into the holes and fill the spaces completely. Chicken wire and peat moss can be found at any local, full-service nursery or home improvement store. To limit messy leakage when watering, line the moss with a sheet of plastic, which also acts as a moisture barrier. Remember to cut one good drainage hole at the bottom of both the seat back and bottom.
Next, slit the plastic where you plan to insert the roots of your succulents. Sandra planted sedums, hens
and chicks, and thyme. Buy the smallest plants available to make inserting the plants’ roots through the wire holes and plastic slits easier.
Fill the frame’s center with potting soil. Not just any soil but a free-draining potting mix with slow-release fertilizer. Firm the soil around the roots of the plants by pressing it down with your hands.
Ever so gently, water your self-acclaimed artwork thoroughly and keep the soil evenly moist until new growth appears. At that point, you only have to water when the soil becomes dry. You’re better off giving your container a good soaking, rather than just misting the top layer. TIP: If the plants start looking wilty, then you’ve waited too long.
Be prepared to learn from your mistakes because no one said this was an exact science.
Thanks Sandra for your creativity and best of luck to you! Imagine how fabulous this chair will look once the plants fill in. If you would like to see your project featured on my blog, please respond with your ideas or visit Have A Garden Question .
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