At Artificial Plant Barn, we love our fake plants, however, the key to integrating artificial plants seamlessly into your space lies in making them look as real as possible.
Below we share some simple yet effective techniques to elevate the appearance of your fake plants, transforming them from obviously artificial to stunningly lifelike.
1. Make them ShineReal plants exude vitality, primarily due to their high-water content, which gives them a naturally moist appearance. To recreate this characteristic in artificial plants, introducing a subtle shine can make a difference. While specialised faux plant cleaners in spray bottles are crafted for this purpose, imparting a delicate gloss, you can also utilize common household items for a similar effect. A light spritz of hairspray, for instance, can be an economical and convenient solution. It adds a gentle sheen, lending your artificial greenery that much-desired natural shimmer, enhancing its realistic appeal.
2. Mastering the art of Placement
The secret to making artificial plants appear real lies in their strategic placement. Situate your fake greenery in locations where their living counterparts would flourish - such as beside windows or in brightly lit corners. Embracing natural light as a key styling element not only enhances their appearance but also integrates them seamlessly into the environment.
If you already have real plants, consider placing them with your artificial ones. This blending technique cultivates an authentic, diverse botanical space, effectively blurring the lines between real and faux.
3. Plant Hygiene – Maintaining a fresh look
Unlike their living counterparts that benefit from nature's cleansing elements like wind, sunlight, and rain, artificial plants require a different approach to maintain their appearance. Dust accumulation is an inevitable challenge, especially in homes where frequent vacuuming stirs up dust particles.
For routine maintenance, a microfiber cloth or a soft duster is your best tool. These items gently remove dust without damaging the delicate surfaces of your plants. For more thorough cleaning, a mild soapy water wash can do wonders. Gently cleanse each leaf and allow them to air dry. This process not only keeps your plants looking their best but also contributes to a healthier and more inviting indoor environment.
4. Sculpting a Natural Form
Upon arrival, your artificial plant is likely to be in a compact, flat-packed form, a far cry from its potential lush, lifelike state. You will need to thoughtfully adjust the branches and leaves to emulate the growth patterns seen in real plants. This process isn't just about placement; it's about bringing a static object to life, even if it is synthetic!
A critical aspect of this transformation is breaking away from symmetry. In nature, perfect symmetry is an exception, not a rule. Observe a real plant, noting how each leaf and stem finds its own unique direction and space. Replicating this asymmetry in your artificial plant will add an element of authenticity, making it more visually appealing and realistic.
5. Selecting the Perfect Home – Planter boxes & Pots
An advantage of artificial plants is their versatility in housing options. Unlike real plants, which may require specific types of containers for health and growth reasons, fake plants offer you the freedom to explore a variety of planter styles. This flexibility allows for perfect alignment with your existing home décor, ensuring that your artificial greenery complements the aesthetic of your space.
For a touch of realism, consider using natural materials such as terracotta, stone, or wood for your planters. These materials lend an earthy, authentic feel, bridging the gap between the artificial nature of the plant and the organic essence of its container. The texture and color of these natural materials can greatly enhance the overall appearance of your faux plant, making it a seamless and attractive addition to your interior design.
6. Investing in Quality – Only Premium Artificial Plants
The saying "you get what you pay for" rings particularly true when it comes to selecting artificial plants. Investing in high-quality faux greenery can make a significant difference in achieving a realistic and aesthetically pleasing look. Lower-priced alternatives often lack the detailed textures and nuanced color variations that lend authenticity to artificial plants.
When shopping for fake plants, prioritize those that exhibit a rich blend of shades and textures, closely mirroring the intricate details of real foliage. The goal is to capture the essence of nature's diversity, so including a variety of plant types, such as lush ferns, delicate flowering plants, and robust succulents, can add depth and interest to your space.
Whenever possible, opt for fake plants that not only look real but also feel real to the touch. This attention to detail contributes significantly to the overall illusion of life and vitality in your artificial plants.
7. Personal Touch – Styling and Accessorising
The final step in integrating your artificial plants into your home is to infuse them with your unique style. Layer these fake botanicals among other decorative elements, such as books, vases, or art pieces, to create a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing environment.
Consider the impact of placement – a well-chosen planter on a side table or in a hallway, surrounded by complementary items like candles, sculptures, table lamps, or lanterns, can transform a simple display into a striking focal point. Such arrangements not only showcase your personal style but also bring a cohesive and refined look to your space.
Embrace the rhythm of the seasons by periodically updating your plant arrangements. Swapping out or rearranging your faux plants in sync with seasonal changes keeps your decor fresh and in tune with the natural world. This dynamic approach to styling keeps your space feeling vibrant and alive, reflecting the ever-changing beauty of the outdoors.
By following these tips, you can effortlessly integrate fake plants into your home. Remember, the goal is to create an illusion of life, transforming your space into a more inviting and serene environment.
Experiment with these tips and share your before-and-after photos on social media! We'd love to see how you've brought life to your space with fake plants. Happy decorating!