DIY Faux Topiary with Artificial Dirt

When I set out to create a cute little faux topiary for our guest room I had no idea that it was going to turn out so darn perfect.

Take a look at the "dirt". Isn't that amazing?! I originally intended to use moss to cover the bottom. 

I don't know what came over me though. I just started mixing stuff and somehow came up with the perfect artificial dirt. 

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You will need:

• Artificial Boxwood Ball
• Stick
• Floral Foam
• Planter/Pot
• Rocks
• Hot Glue Gun
• Sand
• Paint
• Brush
• Mod Podge
• Tooth Pick

​Step One

I wanted my terra cotta pot to have an aged look so, I started off by mixing a little white craft paint with water and brushed it on all over until I had the desired look. 

Step 2

Cut the floral foam to a size that fits snugly into the plant pot then use a little bit of hot glue to secure it. Just be careful not to make it too hot as it will melt the foam. 

Step 3

Now firmly push the stick into the artificial boxwood ball. Then push the stick into the floral foam, making sure to place it in the center.

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Step 4

Squeeze hot glue on top of the floral foam around the stick base then layer your rocks over. 

Step 5

It's time to mix up the "dirt". I used a popsicle stick to stir together ​the sand, Mod Podge, and black paint. I didn't use exact measurements, but it was about equal parts except for the paint which you don't need that much of. 

I went with a consistency that was goopy, but not too runny. It was able to fall off of the popsicle stick though. 

Step 6

​Scoop the "dirt" onto the rocks in the plant pot with the popsicle stick. Cover the entire base and let dry for a moment.

Step 7

Use the toothpick to scratch up the dirt a little. This gives it a more realistic look. Waiting for it to dry slightly ensures that it will not smooth back out.

​Allow the dirt to dry for a day.

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