One simple, thrifty trick to make a fake tree look realistic indoors or outside in just 5 minutes + the best artificial trees.
A recent thrift store find inspired this post. I picked up a sweet vintage brass planter and immediately knew it would be perfect for making a store-bought faux tree look authentic in our upstairs hallway.
A Common Fake Tree Styling Mistake
For years I made a small but telling mistake when styling a room with a faux tree: I would simply set the tree in the pot it came with and call it done. That tiny plastic insert—usually a lightweight pot filled with a slab of concrete—immediately reads as fake and cheap, even when the foliage looks decent.
When you’re trying to create a natural, elevated look, those little details matter. Swapping or disguising that basic base is a fast, low-cost way to make an artificial tree read like a real, styled element in your room.
Planters are a thrift-store staple—keep an eye out. I found this lovely vintage brass planter for $15. The aged patina is what sold me, and I left it unpolished so it would keep that authentic, lived-in look.
Favorite Faux Tree Planters
Choosing a solid, attractive planter is the first step. A heavier or visually interesting planter elevates the whole vignette and makes the tree feel intentional. Look for brass, ceramic, stone, or textured urns at thrift stores or discount shops—anything with a bit of character will help disguise the commercial plastic base that many faux trees come with.
There are two quick, reliable methods to make an artificial plant look realistic, whether it’s indoors or outside. Both take under five minutes and use simple, inexpensive materials you probably already have.
How to Make an Interior Fake Plant Look Realistic
Step 1 – Stuff With Leftover Packing Material
Gather leftover packing material—bubble wrap, crumpled packing paper, or styrofoam pieces—and stuff the planter up to about two inches below the rim. This creates a solid, raised platform to sit the faux tree on so the visible top of the pot looks full and intentional rather than hollow around the plastic insert.
Step 2 – Top with Moss
Cover the packing material with loose craft moss until the filler is completely concealed. A small bag of craft moss from a hobby store is inexpensive and lasts through several projects. The moss hides the filler and gives the planter a natural finish that makes the tree look freshly planted.
This trick instantly disguises the small plastic pot many faux trees arrive in and gives the arrangement a polished, intentional appearance.
How to Make a Fake Tree Look Realistic Outdoors
Outdoor faux trees and topiaries benefit from a slightly different approach that also adds stability for wind and weather. On our front porch I use UV-resistant artificial boxwood topiaries inside sturdy urn planters. Because I’m not great at keeping live plants alive, these give great curb appeal with zero maintenance.
Step 1 – Stuff With Crushed Bottles or Cans
Save and crush plastic bottles or aluminum cans from your recycling and pack them into the bottom of the planter. This raises the planting surface while recycling materials you would otherwise toss.
Step 2 – Top With Potting Soil
Fill the remainder of the planter with potting soil. The soil covers the recycled filler, gives the appearance of a planted urn, and adds weight so outdoor faux trees are less likely to tip over in a breeze.
Top Rated Realistic Trees
There are realistic artificial trees available at nearly every budget level. Cheaper options are perfect if you want an easy seasonal upgrade or a filler for a tight spot; mid-range and higher-end faux trees offer superior foliage, lifelike textures, and sturdier bases that require less disguising. When shopping, look for UV-resistant materials for outdoor use, realistic leaf shapes and veining, and a solid base or the ability to swap in a nicer planter.
Have you ever stuffed a planter? It really does make all the difference. A little filler, topped with moss or soil, turns a mediocre faux tree into a convincing, well-styled element that blends with your decor.
Next time you browse a thrift store, keep an eye out for unique planters—brass, ceramic, stone, or classic urns are all great finds that instantly upgrade artificial trees.
More Thrifted Decor Ideas
- Cordless DIY mini lamp using a thrifted terracotta vase
- 30 home decor items you should always buy while thrift shopping
- DIY candle from a thrifted brass canister
- DIY designer knock-off textile art from a recycled rug
