How to Turn Beer Cans into Succulent Containers

Written By Melanie Fox

If you’re anything like me, you love finding creative ways to reuse and repurpose everyday items — especially when they involve showcasing plants! Beer cans, with their colorful designs and lightweight feel, make surprisingly perfect homes for small succulents. With just a few simple steps, you can turn your favorite can artwork into a unique, eco-friendly planter.

What You’ll Need:

  • Your favorite empty beer can

  • Draft Top tool to safely remove the top of the can

  • Drill with small drill bits

  • Succulent potting mix (Here’s a great option on Amazon!)

  • Small succulents (like echeveria, haworthia, jade plants, or mini aloe — you can even buy live succulents on Amazon!)

  • Pebbles or small rocks (optional for bottom layer — I suggest these)

Instructions

Step 1: Remove the Top of the Can

Start by using a Draft Top tool to cleanly remove the top of your beer can. This gives you a nice, wide opening without any jagged edges, perfect for planting.

Tip: After removing the top, wash and dry the inside of the can thoroughly to remove any leftover beer residue!

Step 2: Drill Drainage Holes

This is absolutely critical for succulent health!

Succulents are very sensitive to sitting water, which can quickly cause root rot. To help your plants thrive:

  • Flip the can upside down.

  • Use a drill to create 3–5 small drainage holes in the bottom.

  • Drill slowly and steadily to avoid denting the can.

If you don't have a drill, a hammer and nail can work in a pinch — just be careful to avoid warping the metal.

Step 3: Add a Layer of Rocks (Optional)

For even better drainage, add a thin layer of small pebbles or rocks at the bottom of the can before adding soil. This creates a barrier to help keep water away from the roots.

Step 4: Fill with Succulent Soil

Succulents do best in a gritty, fast-draining soil. Regular potting soil holds too much moisture, so definitely opt for a soil specifically formulated for succulents and cacti.

Fill the can about 3/4 of the way with soil, leaving room to place your plant.

Step 5: Plant Your Succulent

Gently remove your succulent from its nursery pot and loosen the roots if they’re compacted. Place the plant into the center of the beer can and fill around it with more soil, lightly pressing down to secure it.

Leave about 1/2 inch of space between the soil surface and the rim of the can for easy watering.

Step 6: Care for Your Beer Can Succulent

  • Water Sparingly: Wait until the soil dries out completely before watering again.

  • Sunlight: Succulents love bright, indirect light — a sunny windowsill is perfect!

  • Rotate Occasionally: To keep your plant growing evenly, give your can a little spin every week or so.

Why Beer Cans Are Perfect for Succulents

  • They’re lightweight and easy to move around

  • Beer can artwork is seriously fun and makes a great conversation starter

  • It’s a creative way to recycle and reduce waste

  • Cans are just the right size for most small succulents

Reusing beer cans as succulent planters is one of the easiest, most creative ways to breathe new life into your favorite cans and green up your space at the same time. Just remember: drainage is key — and you’ll be on your way to a stylish little succulent garden in no time 🌿

Melanie Fox
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