DIY May Day Baskets: Southern Mini Topiaries
Create charming DIY May Day basket topiaries using live plants, vine-wrapped wire, and a touch of Southern flair—perfect for gifting to neighbors with heart.
Yield: 1 Topiary
Equipment
- 1 Floral Scissors
- 1 Wire Cutters
Materials
- 1 Pair Garden Gloves
- 1 Roll Natural Vine Wrapped Wire
- 1 4"-6" size Small Trailing Houseplant: Ivy, Creeping Fig, Angel Vine, etc.
- 1 4" Planting Pot: Terracotta Clay, Paper, Burlap, Metal, etc.
- 1 bag Potting Mix
Embellishments
- 1 Ribbon: Spring Color or Colors
- 1 bunch Sheet or Spanish Moss
- 1 Happy May Day Gift Tag
Optional Embellishments
- 1 Can Leaf Shine Spray
- 1 Mini Garden Statuary or Clip On: Birds, Butterflies, Bunnies, Frogs, etc.
Instructions
Shape Your Wire Forms
- Start by creating the decorative topiary frame: Unroll your wired jute twine and cut a piece approximately Cut about 36–40 inches (3 to 3.5 feet) of wire however this may be dependent on the design. For extra stability, fold the piece in half to create a double strand.
- Bend and twist the wire into your desired shape—hearts, loops, spirals, or even simple circles work beautifully.
- Secure any loose ends by twisting them together.
Prepare Your Plants
- Next, prepare the base of your topiary: Fill your terra cotta pot or container about ¾ full with quality potting mix.
- Gently remove your small plant from its nursery pot. Loosen the root ball slightly to encourage new growth.
- Place the plant in the center of your pot and fill in with additional soil.
- Water thoroughly and allow to drain completely.
Combine Plant and Topiary Form
- Now for the creative part: Insert the bottom of your wire form deep into the soil alongside your plant.
- Position it so the decorative shape stands tall above the foliage. Gently guide a few longer stems or vines to begin wrapping around the wire form.
- Use small pieces of additional wire to temporarily secure stems if needed.
Add Southern Finishing Touches
- Give your DIY May Day baskets that special Southern charm: Tuck fresh sheet moss or Spanish moss around the base of the plant to cover the soil.
- Mist the foliage lightly with leaf shine spray for a healthy glow.
- Tie a simple ribbon around the pot and/or attach a small decorative element.
- Add a handwritten gift tag with a sweet message or May Day greeting.
- Add a matching saucer to the bottom of the pot, and complete the look.
