Ever since we put in the new patio I’ve been dreaming of hanging string lights to give it that cozy, magical vibe. But once I measured the space (a full 30 feet wide!), I realized it wasn’t going to work without adding multiple support posts. Rather than overcomplicating things, we decided to pivot — and I’m so glad we did.

We ended up creating these adorable light posts inside planters, each one holding a solar lantern and lavender plants. It totally gives off English garden vibes — think charming lanterns nestled among fragrant flowers. Honestly, it was a happy accident, and I love how it turned out.

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Materials You’ll Need:

• 18″ plastic planter
• 4″x4″ wooden post (cut to your desired height)
• Copper post cap
• Outdoor hook (for hanging lantern or plant)
• Solar lantern (or hanging plant/bird feeder)
• Sand (for weight/stability)
• Potting soil
• Lavender (or other bug-repelling plants)

A Few Helpful Tips:

· Drainage matters: Make sure to punch out the drainage holes in your planter before you begin. It helps prevent root rot and keeps your plants healthy.

· Bug control: Lavender not only smells amazing but also helps repel mosquitoes. Other great bug-repelling plants include:

• Citronella

• Marigolds

• Mint (in a container, as it spreads fast!)

• Lemongrass

· Place before filling: Once you start adding sand and soil, your planter will get heavy. Be sure to move it to its final location before filling it.

Step-by-Step: How We Built It

1. Paint the pots: We spray-painted our plastic planters using a textured spray paint for a high-end look. You’d never guess they were plastic!

2. Paint the post: Paint the post We used a weather-resistant outdoor paint to give the wooden post a fresh, clean look.

3. Assemble the planter

• Insert the post in the center of the pot
• Add sand around the post, filling the pot a little over halfway- this keeps everything stable and prevents tipping.
• Add your plants around the post.
• Top if all off with a layer of quality potting soil.

4. Finishing touches

• Screw in the hook near the top of the post for your lantern (or hanging plant).
• Glue the copper cap to the top of the post for a polished finish.

The Final Look

We placed one planter in each corner of our patio, and they instantly became the perfect anchors for the space. At night, the soft glow from the solar lanterns is just enough to set the mood — cozy, warm, and inviting.

I seriously can’t wait to spend summer evenings out here with a drink in hand and the scent of lavender in the air. This project was super simple, totally customizable, and makes such a statement!