Faux Real Tips + Tricks for Styling Your Fake Plants

Think real is the only way to go? Think again. These quick tricks will seriously step up your faux plant game.

Show: HGTV Happy

We know what you’re thinking: “Faux plants are the worst.” Wrong! Okay, they can be. However, we’ve got some simple tricks that will turn your faux plant nightmares into evergreen dreams!

Upgrade Your Planter

Large faux plants tend to come in really tiny planters. With no root system, there is really no need for a larger container. However, this is a dead giveaway for a fake plant. Combat this simple issue by either placing your plant in a basket to hide the base or sliding it into a larger pot. Add filler to the basket or pot and top with moss or even real dirt to fool guests into thinking it's the real deal.

Shape Up

Photo by: Jalynn Baker

Jalynn Baker

A faux plant’s most recognizable flaw is looking far too perfect. Bring some realism to the table by shaping stems and leaves to slightly droop and follow a less uniform “growth pattern.”

Add Some Variety

Photo by: Jalynn Baker

Jalynn Baker

Distract from the faux-factor by doubling up on variety. Faux snake plants, monsteras and ferns will offer plenty of texture, color and shape to distract from the fact that they aren’t real plants.

Clean Them…Regularly!

Photo by: Jalynn Baker

Jalynn Baker

Dust loves plants, so this tip should apply to all of your plants, even the real ones. The thing is, real plants get watered and misted so the dust isn’t as big of a problem. This means a dusty faux plant is an obvious imposter.

Hang Them High

Photo by: Jalynn Baker

Jalynn Baker

This is an easy trick. If you hang your faux plants high, they will look much more realistic. The plasticky-rubbery-shiny finish will be far less obvious if it’s out of eyeline.

Fill in With Live Plants

Photo by: Jalynn Baker

Jalynn Baker

If your room allows it, fill in around your faux plants with easy-to-grow live plants. This will add even more color, texture and shape and keep even the most curious houseguests guessing.

Faux Centerpiece

Photo by: Jalynn Baker

Jalynn Baker

Skip the stems and flowers and decorate with faux stems in water. The water adds a touch of realism and the faux greenery will last forever.

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