Adding indoor plant shelves is a stylish and practical way to display greenery while maximizing space. Whether you prefer wall-mounted floating shelves, tiered plant racks, or hanging plant shelves, a DIY plant shelf allows you to customize the design, fit your space, and showcase your favorite plants in a beautiful arrangement.
This guide explores six creative DIY plant shelf ideas, covering materials, step-by-step instructions, styling tips, and maintenance hacks to help you create the perfect indoor plant display.
1. DIY Floating Wall-Mounted Plant Shelves
1.1. Simple Wooden Floating Shelf
- Materials: Wood planks, L-brackets, screws, drill.
- Steps:
- Cut wooden planks to your desired length.
- Attach L-brackets to the wall using screws.
- Secure the wooden plank onto the brackets.
- Arrange small potted plants, succulents, or herbs.
Tip: Use light-colored wood for a Scandinavian look or dark-stained wood for a rustic aesthetic.
1.2. Hanging Floating Shelves with Rope
- Materials: Wooden boards, strong rope, ceiling hooks, drill.
- Steps:
- Drill holes into the four corners of a wooden plank.
- Thread rope through the holes and tie knots underneath.
- Attach ceiling hooks and hang the shelf.
- Place small trailing plants like pothos or string of pearls.
Tip: Hang multiple shelves at different heights for a cascading effect.
1.3. Hexagon Wall-Mounted Plant Shelf
- Materials: Wood planks, wood glue, nails, drill.
- Steps:
- Cut six wooden pieces at a 30-degree angle.
- Glue and nail them together into a hexagon shape.
- Mount the hexagon shelf on the wall.
- Place small potted plants or air plants inside.
Tip: Paint it white for a modern look or use natural wood stain for a warm feel.
1.4. Pegboard Plant Shelf Wall
- Materials: Large pegboard, wooden pegs, small shelves.
- Steps:
- Attach a pegboard to the wall.
- Insert wooden pegs at different heights.
- Place small wooden shelves on the pegs.
- Arrange plants in different spots for a dynamic display.
Tip: Use a black pegboard for an industrial look or a white pegboard for a minimalist aesthetic.
2. DIY Corner Plant Shelves to Maximize Space
2.1. Triangle Corner Floating Shelves
- Materials: Plywood, brackets, screws.
- Steps:
- Cut plywood into triangular shapes.
- Install corner brackets and secure the wood.
- Add small succulents or trailing plants.
Tip: Stagger the shelves vertically along the corner for a modern look.
2.2. Tiered Corner Plant Stand
- Materials: Wooden boards, wooden dowels, nails, drill.
- Steps:
- Build a three-tiered wooden rack in a triangular shape.
- Secure wooden dowels for support.
- Paint or stain the stand and place medium-sized potted plants.
Tip: Works best for empty corners that need greenery.
2.3. L-Shaped Plant Shelf for Large Plants
- Materials: Thick wood planks, brackets, drill.
- Steps:
- Cut two wooden planks and connect them in an “L” shape.
- Mount on the corner of a wall using heavy-duty brackets.
- Place tall plants on the lower shelf and smaller ones on top.
Tip: Ideal for fiddle-leaf figs, monstera, or snake plants.
3. DIY Hanging Plant Shelves for Small Spaces
3.1. Macramé Hanging Shelf
- Materials: Wooden board, macramé cord, ceiling hook.
- Steps:
- Drill holes into the four corners of a wooden plank.
- Thread macramé cord through the holes and tie knots.
- Hang it from a sturdy ceiling hook.
- Place small plants in ceramic pots.
Tip: Perfect for bohemian and cozy interiors.
3.2. Window Hanging Plant Shelf
- Materials: Glass or wood shelves, rope, curtain rod.
- Steps:
- Secure a curtain rod above a window.
- Hang glass or wooden shelves using rope or metal chains.
- Arrange herbs or sun-loving plants on each level.
Tip: Allows plants to get maximum sunlight while saving space.
4. DIY Ladder & Leaning Plant Shelves
4.1. Leaning Wooden Ladder Shelf
- Materials: Wood planks, screws, drill.
- Steps:
- Build a ladder frame using wooden planks.
- Attach horizontal shelves across the rungs.
- Lean against a wall and place various plants.
Tip: Adds a modern farmhouse charm to any space.
4.2. Repurposed A-Frame Ladder Plant Stand
- Materials: Old wooden ladder, wooden planks.
- Steps:
- Open the ladder and secure wooden planks across the rungs.
- Place plants on different levels.
Tip: Ideal for patios, balconies, or large living rooms.

5. DIY Bookshelf Plant Display
5.1. Built-In Plant Bookshelf
- Materials: Wooden bookshelf, paint, drill.
- Steps:
- Remove some sections of shelves for taller plants.
- Place books and plants together for an aesthetic mix.
Tip: Works well in home offices or reading nooks.
5.2. Stacked Wooden Crate Shelf
- Materials: Wooden crates, nails, paint.
- Steps:
- Stack wooden crates vertically or horizontally.
- Secure with nails or screws.
- Place plants and books inside for a rustic feel.
Tip: Great for vintage or farmhouse-style homes.

FAQs
1. What type of wood is best for a DIY plant shelf?
- Pine, plywood, reclaimed wood, or solid oak for durability.
2. How do I secure plant shelves to a wall?
- Use L-brackets, anchors, or floating shelf brackets.
3. How much weight can a floating plant shelf hold?
- Usually 15-40 lbs, depending on brackets and wood thickness.
4. What’s the best way to arrange plants on a shelf?
- Mix tall, trailing, and compact plants for a balanced look.
5. How do I protect wooden shelves from water damage?
- Apply a waterproof sealant or use plant trays.
6. Can I make a DIY plant shelf without tools?
- Yes! Stacked crates, pegboards, and adhesive wall shelves work without tools.
7. How do I keep my plant shelf from looking cluttered?
- Leave space between plants and add decorative accents.
A DIY indoor plant shelf helps organize greenery, add character, and save space, turning your home into a lush, stylish oasis.