I’m always looking for a fun craft or project to do with my kids around Mother’s Day. Bonus points if it’s something lasting I can enjoy, and also something we can use as gifts for their grandmas!

What do all moms love? Flowers! And where do we spend most of our time? The kitchen! Now combine those things, and you end up with a gorgeous and unique centerpiece. But for this craft, we’re going to think outside the cut-flowers-plus-vase combo. A centerpiece crafted from a unique indoor houseplant* and an unconventional container is sure to be just as one-of-a-kind as the special mom in your life. 

First, find some creative containers from around your kitchen, or at a thrift store.

Think outside the pot!

 

Colanders and sifters make great pots, as they already have perfect drainage. Or use the open terrarium method for your centerpiece and try clear glass containers such as mason jars, wine glasses, tea cups, or glass bowls.

Here’s what you’ll need for the Pot Method (for a container with good drainage) :

• Colander or sifter of your choice
• Potting soil
• Gallon-size zip-seal bags, if using a colander; coffee filter if using a sifter
• Scissors
• Assortment of small plants*

If you’re using a colander, start by poking holes or cutting small slits in your plastic storage bags. Be careful! Cut open the side seams of the plastic bag until it fits your colander like a liner, then cut away any excess plastic along the top. It won’t fit perfectly—that’s okay. If you’re using a sifter, just line the bottom with a coffee filter. For either method, this first step prevents soil loss when watering. No one wants to clean up a muddy mess on their counters!

Fill your colander about ⅓ of the way with soil, and start adding your plants. It helps to look up some reference photos if you need plant-arranging inspiration. When they’re arranged the way you like, add handfuls of soil around each plant, gently patting it down. Water lightly.

Here’s what you’ll need for the Open Terrarium Method (for a container without drainage):

• Small gravel. Little river rocks or aquarium gravel will also work.
• Activated charcoal (can be found at a gardening, pet, or craft store)
• Potting soil
• Decorative items, such as small statues, charms, or seashells
• Assortment of plants*

Start by adding about an inch-high layer of activated charcoal. This helps reduce moisture, bacteria, and odor. You can get by without it, but you’ll need to be more cautious about watering.

Next, add about a half-inch layer of gravel. Then add a layer of soil; the amount you add will depend on the size of your container, but a two-inch layer is a good starting point.

Carefully place your plants into their new soil bed. It’s easiest to start with the largest, like a focal point, and arrange the smaller plants around it. When they’re all in place, press soil around each one.

Finish with a top layer of gravel or river rock, and your decorative items.

Water sparingly. Remember, there are no drainage holes, so you’ll need to use only a few drops of water at a time.

Delight your mom and grandmas with their custom-made arrangements! You may want to write watering instructions on an index card in your prettiest handwriting to accompany your gift. And be sure to keep at least one for yourself!

*Easy to grow indoor plants include:

• Aloe
• Mother-in-law’s tongue, also known as snake or ribbon plant
• Bromelaids
• Succulents, such as kalanchoe, campfire crassula, flapjacks, waxplant
• Pothos or philodendron
• Spider plant
• Oxalis Purple Clover
• Begonias
• Amethyst flower
• Chamomile
• Garlic and chives