Indoor Tree Limb Hanger

The Indoor Tree Limb Hanger Plant Hanger! 

This brings a lovely touch of nature indoors, utilising the organic beauty of a branch to display your leafy friends. Here's how you can create one, along with material suggestions and helpful tips:

Concept: This hanger involves suspending a decorative tree limb or branch from the ceiling or a sturdy support, and then hanging your potted plants from this limb using various macrame techniques or simple rope/cord.

Materials You'll Need:

• A Decorative Tree Limb or Branch:
• Type: Look for a branch that is sturdy, dry, and aesthetically pleasing. Consider the shape, texture, and natural curves. Driftwood can also work beautifully for this!
• Size: The length will depend on your space and how many plants you want to hang. Ensure it's not too heavy for your chosen suspension method.
• Preparation: Clean the branch thoroughly with a brush to remove any loose dirt, insects, or debris. You can optionally seal it with a clear, non-toxic sealant to preserve it and prevent shedding.
• Suspension Materials (for hanging the branch):
• Strong Rope or Cord: Natural fibres like jute or hemp can give a rustic look, while nylon or braided cords offer more strength and a cleaner appearance. Choose a colour that complements your branch and decor.
• Chain: Metal chain can provide a more industrial or elegant feel, depending on the type and finish. Make sure the links are strong enough to support the weight of the branch and your plants.
• Heavy-Duty Hooks or Ceiling Mounts: Choose hooks or mounts appropriate for your ceiling type and the total weight of the branch and plants. Ensure they are securely installed.
• Carabiners or S-Hooks (optional): These can be useful for easily attaching and adjusting the height of the branch.
• Plant Hanger Materials (for hanging plants from the branch):
• Macrame Cord: As with the previous hanger, cotton, hemp, jute, or synthetic cords work well for creating macrame plant hangers that will be suspended from the limb.
• Rope or Twine: Simple lengths of rope or twine can be used to create minimalist hangers.
• Leather Strips: For a more unique and earthy look, you can use sturdy leather strips.
• Metal Wire: Can be shaped into simple hangers, offering a more industrial aesthetic.
• S-Hooks or Plant Hanger Hooks: These can be attached to your macrame or rope hangers for easy hanging from the branch.
• Tools:
• Drill and appropriate drill bits (for installing ceiling hooks if needed)
• Screwdriver (for securing hooks)
• Measuring tape
• Scissors
• Level (to ensure the branch hangs straight)
• Gloves (to protect your hands while handling the branch)

Instructions to Create Your Indoor Tree Limb Hanger:

Part 1: Preparing and Hanging the Tree Limb

1. Choose and Prepare Your Branch: Select a branch that fits your aesthetic and space. Clean it thoroughly. If desired, apply a clear sealant and let it dry completely.
2. Determine Hanging Points on the Branch: Decide where you want to attach the suspension materials to the branch. Consider the balance of the branch and where it will hang best. You might need one or two suspension points depending on the length and shape of your branch.
3. Attach Suspension Materials to the Branch:
• Rope/Cord: Tie strong knots (like a figure-eight knot or a bowline knot) around the chosen points on the branch, ensuring they are secure and won't slip.
• Chain: You might need to wrap the chain around the branch securely or use sturdy wire or strong cord to attach the chain to the branch at the desired points.
4. Install Ceiling Hooks or Mounts: Choose a location in your room where you want to hang the branch. Ensure the ceiling structure is strong enough to support the weight. Install your chosen hooks or mounts according to the manufacturer's instructions. If you are unsure about the structural integrity of your ceiling, it's best to consult a professional.
5. Hang the Branch: Carefully lift the prepared branch and attach the suspension materials to the ceiling hooks or mounts. Use carabiners or S-hooks if you want to easily adjust the height.
6. Level the Branch: Use a level to ensure the branch hangs straight. Adjust the lengths of your suspension ropes or chains as needed.

Part 2: Creating and Hanging Plant Hangers from the Limb

1. Decide on Your Plant Hanger Style: Choose whether you want to create macrame hangers, simple rope suspensions, or use other materials like leather or wire. Consider the size and weight of your plant pots.
2. Create Your Plant Hangers:
• Macrame Hangers: Follow macrame instructions (like the ones provided for the Colour Block Hanger, adapting the length and design as needed). Ensure the top loop or attachment point is suitable for hanging from the branch.
• Simple Rope/Twine Hangers: Cut lengths of rope or twine. Create a cradle or basket shape to hold your pot by knotting the ends securely. Leave enough length at the top to tie around the branch.
• Leather or Wire Hangers: Cut and shape your materials to create secure and aesthetically pleasing hangers for your pots.
3. Attach Hangers to the Branch: Once your plant hangers are complete, hang them from various points along the tree limb. You can tie them directly to the branch or use S-hooks for easier placement and adjustment.
4. Place Your Plants: Carefully place your potted plants into the hangers. Ensure they are stable and the weight is distributed reasonably evenly along the branch.

Tips for Success:

• Safety First: Ensure all your suspension materials and hooks are strong enough to support the combined weight of the branch and your plants. Overestimate rather than underestimate weight capacity.
• Balance is Key: Distribute the weight of your plants evenly along the branch to prevent it from tipping or putting excessive strain on one point.
• Consider Light Requirements: Position your tree limb hanger in a location that provides adequate light for the types of plants you want to hang.
• Watering Considerations: Think about how you will water your plants. Ensure you can easily access them and that any potential drips won't damage the area below. You might want to use cachepots (decorative outer pots) without drainage holes within your hangers to contain water.
• Vary Hanger Lengths: Hanging plants at different heights from the limb can create a more visually dynamic and interesting display.
• Natural Aesthetic: Embrace the natural imperfections and variations in your chosen branch. They add to the unique character of your hanger.
• Durability of the Branch: Choose a hardwood branch if possible, as it will be more durable and less prone to rot or insect infestation.
• Regular Dusting: Gently dust the branch and your plant hangers periodically to keep them looking their best.
• Consider the Room's Style: Choose a branch and suspension materials that complement the overall style of your room. A rustic branch with jute rope suits a bohemian or farmhouse style, while a sleek branch with metal chains might fit a more modern aesthetic.