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Can You Use a Woven Basket as a Planter?

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Can You Use a Woven Basket as a Planter?

If you’re looking for ways to display your plants, you might be wondering, “Can you use a woven basket as a planter?” I would tell you yes. I have incorporated African woven baskets into my home decor and found them to be a fantastic way to house my plants and decorate my space.


Here's how I do it:


  • I chose a pretty African basket, because why not

  • To protect the basket, I put a plastic liner inside. This keeps water and soil from damaging the basket.

  • Then I add soil and my plant to the pot/planter and transfer it into the basket without without compromising my beautiful African basket. 

Don't put plant directly into a woven basket

I started using African woven baskets as planters a few years ago, and I've never looked back. They're versatile - you can move them around easily to change up your decor.


Now, here's a key tip: Always use a liner inside your basket. This protects the basket from water and soil damage. This can be as simple as placing a plastic pot saucer or a piece of plastic at the bottom of the basket.


The liner will help catch any excess water and prevent the basket from getting damp and deteriorating over time. I usually use a simple plastic pot myself. This way, your beautiful basket stays dry and lasts much longer.

How people use African planter baskets

How Bolga Baskets Are Made: Ghanaian weavers holding the baskets they made
Rufina Designs 

My clients have also expressed their love for using African planter baskets in their homes and offices. 


Many of them appreciate the versatility and uniqueness of these baskets, as they can be used both as functional planters and striking decorative pieces. Some clients have even shared their own creative ideas, such as using different sizes and shapes of baskets to create a visually appealing arrangement of various plants throughout their spaces.


Some use them for their indoor plants, just like I do. 


One client mentioned that she uses our large woven basket for her monstera plant in her living room. She said it helps warm up her modern apartment and makes the plant stand out beautifully.


Another client shared that she uses smaller baskets on her balcony for her herb garden , finding them perfect for keeping her herbs organized and accessible. 


The feedback I receive is always positive, with clients loving how these baskets add a natural and stylish touch to their spaces.

Advantages of using these baskets for plants

How Bolga Baskets Are Made: a collection of African baskets from Rufina Designs

Using baskets as planters is great because:

  • They look more interesting than plain pots

  • You can easily change your decor by swapping baskets

  • They're lightweight and easy to move around


If you want to try this, remember to always use a liner. This will help your beautiful basket last longer while keeping your plants happy.


Using African planter baskets isn't just about looks, though. It's also a way to support artisans who create them, helping to preserve traditional craftsmanship and provide a source of income for these skilled individuals.


So, if you're looking to spruce up your plant game, why not try a woven basket? With the right care, it's a beautiful and practical choice for your green friends.


Have you tried using baskets as planters? I'd love to hear about your experiences!

Some of our bestselling African planter baskets