In this post I want to show you how you can instantly upgrade your faux tree by repotting it in a more decorative and larger scale planter.
Faux trees are a go-to for adding life and greenery to a space—without the maintenance. But one major problem? Most of them come in undersized, plastic nursery pots that are anything but stylish. These too-small, generic bases not only look out of place, but they can also throw off the scale and impact of your entire space.
The fix is simple and impactful: repot your faux tree into a decorative, better-sized planter. It’s a quick update that instantly makes your tree look more realistic, grounded, and high-end.
Why It Works
The planter is like a frame for your faux tree. It sets the tone. A cheap or undersized pot screams “fake,” while a stylish, proportional planter helps your tree blend seamlessly into your decor.
How to Repot and Elevate Your Faux Tree in 5 Easy Steps
1. Pick the Right Planter
Choose a pot that suits your style and enhances the look of your space—woven baskets, ceramic vessels, terracotta, or even sleek concrete are all great options. Size-wise, go for something that’s 2–3 times wider than the original base. This gives the tree better visual weight and balance.
2. Add Height, If Needed
Faux trees are often shorter than they appear once placed in a larger pot. Use books, bricks, or an upside-down container to boost the height inside the planter so the tree stands tall and doesn’t sink below the rim.
3. Stabilize the Tree
Place the faux tree (still in its original pot) into the new planter. Use crumpled newspaper, packing material, or a towel around the base to hold it steady and upright.
4. Cover the Base
Now for the finishing touch: cover the top with decorative filler. Spanish moss, preserved moss, river rocks, or wood chips all work beautifully to conceal the plastic pot and give it a more natural, styled look.
5. Fluff and Adjust
Once your tree is securely in place, step back and fluff the branches. Gently bend and shape them to create a fuller, more organic silhouette. This small detail can make a big difference in how lifelike your faux tree feels.
Bonus Styling Tip
If the trunk looks too shiny or fake, lightly brush on a bit of matte brown or gray paint to dull the sheen. It’s a subtle trick that adds depth and realism.
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For my own home I recently purchased the 8′ Faux Gypsophilia Tree from Target and felt it needed a larger base. I already had the 15-3/4″Dia. x 17-3/8″H Dell All-Weather Planter from Rejuvenation at home that I wasn’t using because the live plant that was in it died.
I decided to put my new faux Target tree inside the larger ficonstone planter from Rejuvenation and then cover it with plastic first and then real potting dirt, to give it a more realistic and elevated look. You can watch how I did it above and shop the exact products I used below.
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Here are a couple more of my favorite faux trees and upgraded planters you might consider using. For example faux potted black olive tree from West Elm pairs perfectly with the Colin King Washed Ficonstone Planters, also from West Elm.
If you are looking for a more budget friendly option I love this artificial olive tree from Amazon paired with this large McGill Planter from Wayfair.
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The Before & After Impact
This home hack takes just 10–15 minutes and can completely transform the look of your faux plant. A better-sized planter gives the illusion of a real tree, makes the piece feel intentional, and elevates the entire corner or vignette it lives in.
If you’re looking for an easy styling win that delivers big results, repotting your faux tree is the move!
Of course I wanted to include some of my favorite faux trees that already have beautiful (and appropriate size) pots. These are ready to go right out of the box!
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In Defense of the Faux Tree
I know faux trees often get a bad rap—and sure, some of them do look like plastic sticks with leaves glued on. But when styled thoughtfully, they can be a beautiful, low-maintenance design solution that brings life and structure to a room. I’m a big fan of them, especially if you’re busy, travel often, or just don’t have the time (or green thumb) to care for a real plant.
The key is all in the presentation. With a better planter, some simple styling, and a bit of effort to make them look intentional, faux trees can absolutely hold their own in a well-designed space. They add height, texture, and greenery without any of the fuss—and that’s a win in my book.
So don’t ditch your faux tree—just give it a little glow-up.
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