This Styrofoam skull planter makes a delightful Halloween centerpiece. It’s simple to assemble, lasts throughout October, and works well indoors or on a covered porch.
I collaborated with Erin from White Fig Designs to create this charming centerpiece using a pre-decorated Styrofoam skull and a few succulents. I display mine on a cake stand in the kitchen alongside pumpkins, a skeleton garland, and candles. It’s easy to move outside for Halloween night if you like. Follow the directions below to make your own.
How To Make This Skull Planter – Step By Step
What You’ll Need
1 styrofoam skeleton head (pre-decorated or plain — craft stores carry various sizes)
succulents
duct tape
knife
planting soil
handful of moss
Directions
- Cut a square-shaped opening in the top of the Styrofoam skull.
- If the skull has a removable bottom piece, trim and reuse that piece if it helps stabilize the interior.
- Place a handful of moss in the bottom of the opening, letting some spill out of the eye sockets and nose for a natural look.
- Line the inside edge of the opening with duct tape to reduce water saturation of the Styrofoam when you water the plants.
- Add planting soil and arrange succulents inside the skull.
- Water lightly every few days and enjoy your centerpiece.
Skull Planters – An Easy DIY Halloween Decoration
Traditional Halloween decorations like pumpkins, ghosts, and cobwebs are classics, but a skull planter adds a fresh, whimsical touch and can remain a decorative accent beyond the holiday. It’s quick to make—under 10 minutes—so you can make one or several to create a display.
Painting Your Skull Planter
If you want to personalize the skull, paint it. Acrylic paint works best on Styrofoam and comes in many colors. Because Styrofoam is porous, apply several thin coats, letting each dry before the next. Use a foam brush for smooth coverage and to avoid damaging the surface.
Succulents
Succulents are popular indoor plants because they store water in their stems and leaves and require minimal maintenance. They are forgiving and thrive in small planters like this skull.
Many succulents continue to produce oxygen at night, which can refresh the air in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. They are also effective at helping remove certain volatile organic compounds from indoor air when kept healthy.
Tips For Your Skull Planter
- Use a sharp knife and work carefully when cutting the Styrofoam.
- Buy a pre-decorated skull if you prefer to skip painting.
- Line the inside edge of the planter opening with duct tape to help protect the Styrofoam from moisture.
- Fertilize succulents lightly once or twice a year and water sparingly—about once a week, depending on your climate and indoor conditions.
More Halloween Inspiration
If you enjoyed this project, try other seasonal ideas such as vintage-themed parties, curated Halloween decor, or a themed candy cart to complete your celebration.
If you make this skull planter, please leave a comment to share how it turned out. Follow the author on social media to see more family-friendly ideas and recipes.
Easy Skull Vase
10 minutes
10 minutes
1 skull
Eden
Ingredients
- 1 styrofoam skeleton head
- succulents
- planting dirt
- handful of moss
Instructions
-
Cut a square hole in the top of the Styrofoam skull.
-
Trim and reuse the removed piece if it helps stabilize the interior.
-
Fill the bottom with moss and let some show through the eyes and nose for a natural effect.
-
Tape around the inside edge with duct tape to protect the Styrofoam from excess moisture.
-
Add soil and plant succulents.
-
Water lightly every few days and enjoy your skull planter.
Tried this project? Share a photo!
Tag @sugarandcharm on social media to show us your version.