When I moved into my first apartment with 9-foot ceilings but limited floor space, I discovered the untapped potential above my head. What began as hanging a single pothos plant from my living room ceiling has evolved into a full-blown obsession with suspended greenery.
Now, my home features trailing plants cascading from macramé hangers, herbs dangling in my kitchen window, and even a “plant curtain” that creates natural privacy in my bedroom.
Hanging plants are truly the unsung heroes of interior (and exterior) decorating. They add visual interest by drawing the eye upward, introduce an organic element to otherwise sterile spaces, and solve the eternal problem of limited surface area for your ever-growing plant collection. Plus, they keep precious greenery away from curious pets and children!
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about hanging plants: from selecting the right varieties and hardware to creative placement ideas and season-specific care.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to hang your first plant or a seasoned plant parent wanting to take your aerial garden to new heights, this guide has you covered.
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Why Hang Your Plants?
The Benefits of Going Vertical
- Maximizes Space: Perfect for small apartments or homes with limited floor and shelf space
- Creates Dimension: Adds height and visual interest to rooms by drawing the eye upward
- Improves Air Quality: Plants clean the air, and placing them at different heights improves circulation
- Pet and Child Safety: Keeps potentially toxic plants out of reach
- Showcases Trailing Plants: Allows vining plants to grow naturally and show off their cascading beauty
- Fills Empty Corners: Transforms awkward or unused spaces into green focal points
- Brings Nature Indoors: Creates a connection to the outdoors, especially in urban environments
- Improves Acoustics: Plants help absorb sound, reducing echo in large spaces
- Boosts Creativity and Wellbeing: Research shows that surrounding yourself with plants reduces stress and improves mood
Choosing the Right Plants for Hanging
Not all plants thrive in hanging conditions. The ideal candidates are those that:
- Can adapt to limited soil space
- Have trailing or cascading growth habits
- Don’t mind drying out slightly between waterings
- Can handle being viewed from below
Best Indoor Hanging Plants
For Bright Light to Bright Indirect Light
- String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus): These succulent “beads” can trail several feet and create a dramatic statement
- Burro’s Tail (Sedum morganianum): A drought-tolerant succulent with chunky, overlapping leaves
- String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii): Delicate heart-shaped leaves on thin vines
- Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus radicans): Glossy leaves and dramatic red tubular flowers
- English Ivy (Hedera helix): Classic trailing plant with variegated options (note: toxic to pets)
- Hoya (various species): Waxy leaves and star-shaped flowers that smell divine
For Medium to Low Light
- Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): Nearly indestructible with varieties like Golden, Marble Queen, and Neon. 👉 Learn How to Care for Manjula Pothos with Tips for Beginners & Pros
- Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum): Shiny, heart-shaped leaves that trail beautifully
- Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Produces “babies” that hang from long stems
- Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): Feathery fronds that create a full, lush look
- Tradescantia (various species): Fast-growing with purple, green, or variegated leaves
- Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura): Patterned leaves that fold up at night
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For Bathrooms (Humid Conditions)
- Staghorn Fern (Platycerium): Unusual architectural plant that thrives in humidity. 👉Learn How to Grow and Care for Elkhorn Fern: Easy Tips for Beginners
- Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus): Crinkly bright green fronds
- Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum): Delicate, feathery fronds that love steam
- Air Plants (Tillandsia): No soil needed, just hang them in a bright bathroom
Best Outdoor Hanging Plants
For Sun
- Petunias: Classic cascading flowers in every color imaginable. 👉 Learn How to Grow Petunias from Seed.
- Calibrachoa (Million Bells): Tiny petunia-like flowers that bloom prolifically
- Nasturtiums: Edible flowers and leaves with a peppery taste
- Sweet Alyssum: Tiny fragrant flowers that attract pollinators
- Strawberries: Hanging keeps fruit away from ground pests
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For Shade
- Fuchsia: Exotic hanging flowers that attract hummingbirds
- Begonias: Various types with stunning flowers or foliage. Read the Beginner’s Guide to Growing the Troll Begonia
- Impatiens: Reliable blooms in shady spots
- Coleus: Grown for colorful foliage rather than flowers
- Ivy Geranium: More trailing than regular geraniums
Hardware and Hanging Options
The right hardware depends on where you’re hanging your plant, how heavy it is, and whether you can make permanent changes to your space.
Ceiling Mounting Options
For Permanent Installation
1. Swag Hooks with Toggle Bolts (for drywall ceilings):
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- Best for heavier plants (up to 15-20 pounds)
- Requires drilling but provides the most secure hold
- Installation steps:
- Drill a hole in the ceiling (typically 5/8 inch)
- Insert toggle bolt through the hook
- Push the folded toggle through the hole
- Tighten until secure against the ceiling
2. Hook Screws into Ceiling Joists:
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- Most secure option, can hold 30+ pounds
- Requires locating ceiling joists with a stud finder
- Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the screw shaft
- Twist the hook into the pilot hole until flush with ceiling
For Renters and No-Drill Solutions
1. Tension Rods:
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- Install between two walls near the ceiling
- Use S-hooks to hang plants from the rod
- Weight capacity varies (typically 10-30 pounds total)
- Great for grouping multiple plants
2. Magnetic Hooks:
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- Work on metal surfaces or where metal ceiling beams are exposed
- High-quality neodymium magnets can hold up to 100 pounds
- Test weight capacity before trusting with expensive plants
3. Adhesive Hooks:
-
- For very lightweight plants only (1-2 pounds maximum)
- Work best on smooth, clean surfaces
- Remove carefully to avoid damaging paint
4. Over-the-Door Hooks:
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- Hang plants near doorways without drilling
- Choose sturdy metal hooks for heavier plants
Wall Mounting Options
1. Wall Plant Brackets:
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- Decorative options available in various styles
- Secure to wall studs for heavier plants
- Use toggle bolts if studs aren’t available
2. Wall-Mounted Shelving:
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- Create plant displays with multiple levels
- Can hold several plants in one installation point
3. Wall Clips and Plant Supports:
-
- For guiding climbing or trailing plants along walls
- Nearly invisible support system
Alternative Hanging Methods
- Macramé Plant Hangers:
- Adds texture and bohemian style
- Customizable length and style
- Works with existing ceiling hooks
- Hanging Grow Lights:
- Combines plant support with necessary lighting
- Great for dark corners or winter months
- Repurposed Items:
- Old baskets with rope or chain added
- Colanders or mesh bags for small plants
- Vintage birdcages for air plants
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
What You’ll Need
- Ladder or step stool
- Drill with appropriate bits
- Pencil for marking
- Level (for multiple hooks)
- Stud finder (for ceiling joists)
- Eye protection
- Appropriate hardware for your ceiling type
- Someone to spot you while on the ladder
Installing a Swag Hook in Drywall (Toggle Bolt Method)
- Choose Your Location:
- Consider the plant’s light needs
- Ensure there’s enough clearance for the plant to hang
- Mark the spot with a pencil
- Prepare the Hardware:
- Thread the bolt through the swag hook base
- Attach the toggle to the end of the bolt
- The wings should face toward the hook
- Drill the Hole:
- Use a 5/8-inch drill bit (or size recommended for your toggle)
- Drill straight up into the marked spot
- Install the Toggle:
- Pinch the toggle wings together
- Insert through the hole until the wings spring open
- Gently pull down to ensure the toggle has deployed
- Tighten the hook by turning clockwise until the base is flush with the ceiling
- Test the Strength:
- Before hanging your prized plant, test the hook by pulling down firmly
- Start with empty planters to ensure the hook holds
Installing a Hook in a Ceiling Joist
- Locate the Joist:
- Use a stud finder to locate a ceiling joist
- Mark the location with a pencil
- Drill a Pilot Hole:
- Use a drill bit slightly smaller than your hook’s screw
- Drill about 1 inch deep, ensuring you hit solid wood
- Install the Hook:
- Insert the threaded end of the hook into the pilot hole
- Turn clockwise until the hook is firmly seated
- If it becomes difficult to turn by hand, use pliers with a cloth to protect the finish
For Renters: No-Drill Tension Rod Method
- Measure the Space:
- Measure the distance between walls where you want to hang plants
- Purchase a tension rod that extends at least 2 inches longer than this measurement
- Install the Rod:
- Place the rod near the ceiling
- Extend until it’s firmly pressed against both walls
- Test by gently pulling down
- Hang Your Plants:
- Use S-hooks to hang plants from the tension rod
- Distribute weight evenly to prevent the rod from sagging
Creative Placement Ideas
The way you arrange hanging plants can dramatically transform a space. Here are some inspired ideas:
Window Plants
Windows are perfect for hanging plants because they provide natural light and create a beautiful filtered effect.
- Window “Curtain” Effect: Create a living curtain by hanging multiple trailing plants at different heights in front of a window. The cascading foliage filters light beautifully and creates privacy without blocking the view entirely.
- Kitchen Herb Garden: Hang small pots of herbs in a sunny kitchen window for easy access while cooking. Basil, thyme, and mint are particularly suited to hanging arrangements.
- Bathroom Oasis: Transform a bathroom window into a spa-like retreat by hanging humidity-loving ferns and tropical plants. The steam from showers will keep them happy.
Room-Specific Ideas
- Living Room Corner Installation: Group three or more plants of varying lengths in an empty corner to create a living sculpture. Mix different textures and leaf shapes for visual interest.
- Bedroom Canopy: Create a dreamy effect by hanging plants above your bed. Choose non-toxic varieties with soft trailing foliage. (Warning: Make sure hooks are extremely secure for over-bed installations!)
- Home Office Focus Wall: Improve concentration and air quality by installing a grid of hanging plants behind your desk. The greenery provides a calming backdrop for video calls too.
- Entryway Statement: Make a stunning first impression by hanging a large, dramatic plant in your entryway. A mature pothos or philodendron with 4+ foot vines creates an unforgettable welcome.
Outdoor Spaces
- Porch Ceiling Garden: Transform an outdoor ceiling by installing multiple hooks in a grid pattern. Hang flowering plants at different heights for a cottage garden feel.
- Privacy Screen: Create natural privacy on a balcony or patio by hanging plants from a pergola or overhead beam. Fast-growing vines can form a living wall within a season.
- Vertical Vegetable Garden: Hang edible plants like cherry tomatoes, strawberries, and lettuce from a sturdy structure. This saves space and keeps produce away from ground pests.
Styling Tips and Plant Combinations
Creating Visual Impact
- Play with Heights: Hang plants at varying heights to create depth and dimension. Generally, place shorter, bushier plants higher and longer trailing plants lower.
- Group in Odd Numbers: Plants grouped in threes or fives create more visual interest than even-numbered groupings.
- Mix Textures and Leaf Shapes: Combine feathery ferns with smooth, glossy-leaved plants and small-leaved trailing varieties for a rich, layered look.
- Consider Color: Create cohesion with a planned color palette. Try all-green for a calming effect, or mix in plants with burgundy, silver, or variegated foliage for contrast.
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Winning Plant Combinations
The Classic Trio:
- Pothos (trailing)
- Spider Plant (arching)
- Philodendron Brasil (trailing with color)
Succulent Collection:
- String of Pearls (trailing beads)
- Burro’s Tail (chunky trails)
- Flowering Kalanchoe (upright blooms)
Fern Fantasy:
- Boston Fern (full and feathery)
- Bird’s Nest Fern (architectural)
- Maidenhair Fern (delicate)
Colorful Foliage Grouping:
- Purple Tradescantia (vibrant trailing)
- Pink Syngonium (heart-shaped leaves)
- Neon Pothos (bright chartreuse)
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Seasonal Care Guide
Hanging plants have unique care needs that change throughout the year.
Spring and Summer
- Watering: Hanging plants dry out faster than those on surfaces because of increased air circulation. In summer, you may need to water 2-3 times per week, especially outdoor hanging baskets.
- Pro Tip: For easier watering, take down the plant and place it in a sink or bathtub. Let it soak for 15 minutes, then allow it to drain completely before rehanging.
- Light: Monitor sun patterns as they change with the seasons. Plants that were happy in winter may need protection from intense summer sun, especially in south-facing windows.
- Feeding: Hanging plants typically have limited soil volume, so regular fertilizing is crucial during the growing season. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks.
- Pruning: Regular trimming encourages bushier growth. For trailing plants, pinch back long runners to maintain a fuller appearance.
Fall and Winter
- Reduced Watering: Most plants enter a dormant phase in winter and need less water. Always check soil moisture before watering.
- Humidity: Indoor heating systems can dry out plants. Consider a humidifier or occasional misting for moisture-loving varieties.
- Rotation: Turn plants 1/4 turn weekly to ensure even growth, especially important during winter when plants stretch toward limited light.
- Temperature: Keep hanging plants away from drafty windows and heat sources, which can stress them.
- Winter Protection for Outdoor Hangers: Bring in tender hanging plants before first frost, or choose cold-hardy options like ivy, pansies, and ornamental cabbage for winter interest.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Problem: Plant is Growing Unevenly
Solution: Rotate your hanging plant a quarter turn weekly. Plants naturally grow toward light sources, and hanging plants can quickly become lopsided without regular rotation.
- Problem: Leaves Turning Brown at the Tips
Solution: This often indicates under-watering or low humidity. Hanging plants dry out faster than those on surfaces. Try more frequent watering or misting the air around humidity-loving varieties.
- Problem: Soil Keeps Falling Out
Solution: Line your hanging basket with coconut coir, moss, or a coffee filter before adding soil. For existing plants, carefully add a layer of moss around the top edge.
- Problem: Plant Looks Stretched and Leggy
Solution: Your plant needs more light. Move it to a brighter location or consider supplemental grow lights during darker months.
- Problem: Water Drips on Floor When Watering
Solution: Take the plant down and water it in a sink, allowing it to drain completely before rehanging. Alternatively, use a planted with a built-in reservoir or add a drip tray.
- Problem: Hook Pulling Away From Ceiling
Solution: You need a stronger mounting solution. If using drywall, ensure you’re using a proper toggle bolt, not just a plastic anchor. For heavier plants, locate a ceiling joist for the most secure mounting.
- Problem: Plants Keep Dying in Hanging Planters
Solution: Check your pot size. Many decorative hanging planters are too small for proper root development. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage and consider the soil mix – hanging plants benefit from soil that retains moisture but doesn’t stay soggy.
DIY Planter Ideas
Macramé Plant Hanger
With just some cotton cord and basic knotting techniques, you can create a custom macramé hanger for any pot. This is a great way to hang plants that are already in standard pots.
Basic Macramé Tutorial:
- Cut 8 strands of cotton cord, each 8 feet long
- Fold the cords in half and tie a gathering knot at the fold
- Separate into 4 groups of 4 strands each
- Create square knots at regular intervals
- At about halfway down, create a basket pattern by knotting across groups
- Finish with a gathering knot at the bottom
- Add beads or wooden elements for personalization
Upcycled Container Ideas
- Vintage Colander: Line a colorful vintage colander with moss, add soil and plants, and hang with sturdy chain. The built-in drainage is perfect for plants.
- Mason Jar Herb Garden: Transform mason jars into hanging planters with wire wrapped around the neck. Perfect for herbs in a bright kitchen window.
- Teacup Planters: Drill drainage holes in vintage teacups and hang with thin wire or fishing line for delicate succulents or small air plants.
- Coconut Shell Planters: Halved coconut shells make natural-looking planters for tropical plants. Sand the edges smooth and drill drainage holes before planting.
Sustainability Considerations
Water Conservation
Hanging plants typically dry out faster and require more frequent watering. Implement these water-saving strategies:
- Add Water-Retaining Polymers to soil mix to reduce watering frequency
- Install Drip Irrigation with timers for outdoor hanging plants
- Group Plants Together to increase humidity and reduce water loss
- Use Self-Watering Planters with reservoirs that reduce watering frequency
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Material Choices
- Terracotta and Ceramic: Traditional, beautiful, but heavy and breakable
- Recycled Plastic: Lightweight and durable, look for post-consumer recycled options
- Biodegradable Coir: Natural fiber containers that can be composted at end of life
- Locally Made Planters: Support local artisans and reduce transportation carbon footprint
Soil Considerations
- Use Peat-Free Potting Mix: Peat harvesting damages sensitive bog ecosystems
- Add Worm Castings: Natural, sustainable fertilizer that improves soil health
- Incorporate Coconut Coir: Renewable alternative to peat that retains moisture well
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FAQ Section
- How much weight can a ceiling hook hold?
Toggle bolts installed in drywall can typically hold 50-100 pounds, while hooks screwed directly into ceiling joists can hold 100+ pounds. Always check the weight rating on your specific hardware and stay well under the maximum.
- How do I water hanging plants without making a mess?
The best method is to take the plant down and water it in a sink or tub, allowing it to drain completely before rehanging. For plants that are difficult to remove, use a watering can with a long, narrow spout to direct water precisely, or try a plant watering bag with slow-release technology.
- What plants are safe to hang in homes with pets?
Pet-safe hanging plants include spider plants, Boston ferns, parlor palms, hoyas, and most Calathea varieties. Avoid pothos, philodendron, English ivy, and string of pearls, which are toxic to cats and dogs.
- How often should I repot hanging plants?
Most hanging plants need repotting every 1-2 years. Signs it’s time to repot include roots growing through drainage holes, water running straight through without being absorbed, and slowed growth despite good care.
- Can I hang plants on my apartment ceiling if I’m renting?
Yes, with the right approach. Consider tension rods between walls, over-door hooks, or adhesive hooks for lightweight plants. If you do drill, save the ceiling anchors and small amount of spackle needed for repair when moving out.
- Should hanging plants be fertilized differently than other plants?
Yes, hanging plants typically have less soil volume and more frequent watering, which can wash away nutrients. Use a liquid fertilizer at half-strength twice as often as recommended for regular potted plants during the growing season.
Conclusion
When I look up at the canopy of green that now adorns my ceiling, I’m reminded of how transformative hanging plants can be. That first pothos I nervously suspended years ago has inspired an entire aerial garden that gives me joy every day. There’s something magical about plants that defy gravity, creating movement and life in previously empty spaces.
Whether you’re hanging a single plant to brighten a bathroom or creating an elaborate suspended garden in your living room, the techniques and tips in this guide will help your plants thrive. The beauty of hanging plants is that they’re endlessly adaptable — to your space, style, and skill level.
I encourage you to start small, perhaps with a hardy pothos or spider plant, and as your confidence grows, so too can your hanging garden. Before long, you might find yourself, like me, constantly looking upward and thinking, “I could hang a plant there!”
Happy hanging!
