Seedlings and young plants in an outdoor garden can be easily identified with stakes, but it can be just as important to identify indoor foliage, especially when caring for dozens of different varieties. They can be creative, practical and decorative, and since they will not be exposed to the elements, they can be made from a variety of materials. Use these creative ideas for making indoor plant stakes instead of buying the ready made type. They are ideal for identifying herbs, seedlings, succulents and more.
Before Getting Started
To keep the wooden sticks and skewers from deteriorating in wet soil, wrap the bases with waterproof duct tape. They will last far longer than those that are unprotected. Duct tape comes in a rainbow of colors and designs, and although most of it will not show, if it does it will not detract from the style of the indoor plant stakes.
Coat Craft Sticks with Chalkboard Paint
Chalkboard paint is good for more than just resurfacing worn chalkboards. It can be used for a number of craft purposes. It is available in small cans, and it is perfect for making indoor plant stakes. Coat wooden craft sticks with chalkboard paint in a color of your choice. They can be erased and reused again and again.
Use Old Spoons and Nail Polish for Unique Indoor Stakes
Old spoons can also be used to create unique indoor plant stakes, and they can be decorated to coordinate with any planter or color scheme. Fingernail polish will adhere beautifully, and it comes in every color imaginable. Use it like paint to decorate the spoons, and label them accordingly. If you ever want to redo the lettering, unlike paint, the polish can be easily removed.
Stick Labeled Wine Corks on Sticks
Wine corks and sturdy sticks also make fantastic stakes for indoor plants. Find straight sticks that will hold up, and twist them into the ends of wine corks. Using a fine tip permanent marker, label the corks. It is a good way to reuse old wine corks while clearly labeling indoor seedlings and plants.
Make Unique Plant Stakes with Air Dry Clay and Skewers
You can make just about anything with air dry clay, and it can be painted and decorated using acrylic craft paint. Make unique plant stakes using air dry clay and wooden skewers. Shape the clay as desired, and add lettering using clay tools or a toothpick. Spear the clay with the skewers, and allow it to dry completely before painting and glazing.
Source: Professional Home Decorating and Crafting Experience