Life, as of Late

Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through them. This comes at no additional cost to you and helps support the content I create. I only recommend products and services that I genuinely believe in and think will be valuable to you. Thank you for your support!

Organic modern seems to be the most popular interior design style as of the last few years, and understandably so. It’s chic, yet warm and I, for one, hope it’s here to stay. 

One of the most notable decor pieces within this branch (no pun intended) is a tall faux olive tree placed in an equally sizable planter. To fit the theme, the planter is usually made of organic materials, such as terracotta or ceramic. The question, then, is how does one fill a large planter containing a fake decorative tree? With actual soil? Rocks? Dirt? I have the answer for you. 

Spanish Moss. When trying to achieve that organic, authentic look, this dried plant does all of the leg work for you. And the best part is, it’s affordable. Don’t worry — you won’t need to fill the planter entirely up with moss, only the very top.

To assemble your planted olive tree, place the faux tree inside the planter, ensuring it’s properly centered. Then, using cardboard or anything sturdy, but flexible that you have (that you won’t miss or need), surround the base of the olive tree with it, supporting it so it won’t lean to the side or tip over. 

Continue to fill the planter until it’s about 85% full. For the remaining space, use material that is less rigid, like packaging paper, bubble wrap, or fabric. This will give the Spanish moss a flat, even surface to lie on. 

Now, add your Spanish moss overtop, fingering through the strands to ensure it’s evenly spread and separated. Make sure to cover any open spaces that might expose the chaos beneath. Fluff the moss as needed.

Voila. There you have it. It really is that simple. The final look is so chic and polished and has even successfully fooled a guest of mine who asked if it was a real tree or not. Mission accomplished.