Get This Look
Who knew a Dollar Tree trash can and a pool noodle could become the most-talked-about piece in your living room? This genius hack transforms two dollar-store finds into a tall, sculptural floor planter that looks like it came straight from a boutique home goods store — for under $5 total.
How to Recreate It
- Grab a tall Dollar Tree trash can (the slim, cylindrical style works best) and one pool noodle.
- Cut the pool noodle into sections and stuff them into the bottom of the trash can to create a stable, elevated base for your faux plant or stems.
- Spray paint the entire trash can in a matte finish — white, black, terracotta, or sage green all look elevated and intentional.
- Once dry, add a layer of decorative river rocks or faux moss on top of the pool noodle filler to hide the hack and add texture.
- Insert tall faux stems, dried pampas grass, or a faux fiddle leaf branch and arrange until full and natural-looking.
- Place on a decorative tray or woven trivet to anchor the look and protect your floors.
Styling Tips
- Pair two matching planters on either side of a sofa or entryway console for a designer, symmetrical look.
- Choose a spray paint color that pulls from another element in the room — a pillow, a rug, or your wall color — to make it feel intentional.
- Dried pampas grass and tall eucalyptus stems read the most expensive in this style of planter.
- A woven seagrass tray underneath instantly elevates the whole vignette and makes it look purposeful, not DIY.
Budget Swaps
- Skip the decorative rocks and use leftover potting soil or crumpled newspaper to fill the base — no one will see it.
- Any cylindrical container works: a tall coffee can, an oatmeal canister, or a leftover paint bucket spray-painted to match.
- Real dried pampas or dried wheat stalks from a craft store clearance bin are just as stunning as faux stems at a fraction of the price.
- Instead of a decorative tray, a Dollar Tree charger plate or woven placemat works as a stylish base.
