Are you tired of spending countless hours watering, pruning, and nurturing your outdoor plants, only to find them wilting under the sun's relentless heat?
Same here. That’s why I started thinking artificial plants for outdoor and faux flowers for our porch. Not just any faux plants but ones that seriously look real.
Join me for no more wilting, no bugs, no mess—just pretty greenery that stays looking fresh no matter what the weather’s doing. I have spent hours researching for the best of the best of outdoor faux flowers and plants for my front porch so let's get started.
Best Artificial Plants for Outdoors
Whether you're dealing with a sunny backyard, a shady balcony, or a breezy patio, faux plants and flower can maintain their vibrant appearance no matter the conditions. With an array of options from realistic flowers to lush greenery, you can create a stunning outdoor oasis effortlessly.
So, why not explore the possibilities of artificial outdoor plants and transform your space into a low-maintenance retreat?
Choosing REALISTIC Faux Flowers and Plants
Choose Realistic Materials: High-quality silk, polyester, and plastic plants are great options. Silk flowers are renowned for their realistic appearance and soft texture, making them an excellent choice for a more natural look.
Polyester plants are durable and resistant to outdoor conditions, while plastic plants are known for their sturdiness and ease of maintenance.
Top Picks for Outdoor Use: Some top picks for outdoor use include faux ferns, which add a lush, green touch to any space, and artificial topiaries that bring an elegant, structured look to your decor.
Don’t overlook vibrant artificial flowers; they can add a splash of color and cheerfulness to your garden or patio without the worry of wilting or seasonal changes.
Keep reading because I share about each faux plant and flower in this blog post in the shopping section.
Look for Realistic Details: When selecting your faux plants, pay attention to the details. Look for plants with textured leaves, subtle color variations, and even slight imperfections that mimic real greenery. This level of detail can make all the difference in achieving a lifelike appearance.
Many modern artificial plants are designed with advanced techniques that create an incredibly natural look and feel.
Styling Tips: Additionally, consider the arrangement and placement of your faux plants. Mixing different types of greenery and flowers can create a more dynamic and visually appealing display.
Use varying heights and textures to add depth and interest to your planters and consider adding in some real plants and flowers for an even more realistic look. And don't for a wreath for a door. Outdoor faux wreaths hold up really good.
With the right selection and arrangement, your outdoor space can be transformed into a beautiful, low-maintenance haven that’s full of life and color.
Making Your Faux Plants UV Resistant
One common issue with artificial outdoor plants is fading in the sun. That’s why UV resistance is key. But if you fall in love with an indoor-rated piece—don’t worry, I’ve got a fix!
You can easily make your faux plants UV resistant with a few straightforward steps like I did here with this faux lavendar plant I found at Homegoods.
And this small topiary from Studio McGee at Target.
Start by purchasing a UV protection spray, which is readily available at most garden centers or online retailers.
Simply spray your plants thoroughly, making sure to cover all surfaces, including the undersides of the leaves. This will create a protective barrier against harmful UV rays.
For extra protection, consider applying a clear acrylic spray.
This adds an additional layer of defense against sun damage, helping to maintain the vibrancy and realistic appearance of your faux plants. It's a good idea to reapply these sprays every few months, especially if your plants are in direct sunlight most of the time.
However, If you live in an area with particularly harsh sun, you might want to invest in faux plants that are specifically labeled as UV-resistant from the start.
These are designed to withstand sun exposure better than regular artificial plants. Always check the labels when shopping to ensure you're getting the most durable options for your outdoor space.
By taking these simple steps, you can enjoy the beauty of your artificial plants without worrying about them losing their color and appeal. Keep your outdoor space looking fresh and vibrant all year long with these easy UV protection tips!
Shopping Tips: Where to Buy Quality Faux Outdoor Plants
After hours and hours of searching I have narrowed down where to buy the best most realistic faux outdoor plants and flowers but let's look at a place to look if money is tight first.
Best Place to Buy Realistic Budget Friendly Outdoor Faux Plants
Stores like TJ Maxx, Homegoods, and Marshalls frequently have an impressive selection of artificial outdoor greenery that looks incredibly lifelike. The great news is that you can often snag these gems at very reasonable prices.
This Martha Stewart faux boxwood, you can find the faux topiary here and Target Studio Mcgee topiary here. These are just what I needed to add the perfect height to this spot. Such a timeless touch for spring!
These Laura Ashley cosmos hanging pots tucked into a pretty clay planter from TJ Maxx look so real—like they were just picked from the garden!
Last fall, I decorated with orange and neutrals and found the perfect outdoor artificial mum at Homegoods. I loved it so much, I added several around the fireplace hearth—and even tucked a few on the porch too!
This year I am already planning and found this fall tree at Nearly Natural. Wow! It is so beautiful!
So keep your eyes open early in the season at off-price retailers. Its a great way to get higher end looking outdoor flowers without the high price tag.
Best Places to Buy the Most Realistic Faux Plants
We’ve talked about where to find the best deals on the most realistic faux outdoor plants and flowers, but let’s be honest—if you want the truly great ones, you’ll need to splurge a little.
Here’s a list of the best and most realistic artificial outdoor plants and flowers.
- Frontgate (my favorites are the snowball tree, boxwood balls, camelia plant, and outdoor mixed green which includes queen annes lace flowers)
- Amazon (yes there are some great ones here like this outdoor faux camilla tree and these impatiens)
- Balsam Hill (love these hydrangeas and they come in different colors)
- Grandin Road (these container garden, azalea potted plant, bellflower urn filler and ferns are amazing!)
- Nearly Natural (These geraniums are amazing—Nearly Natural is run by botanist whose goal was to make faux plants just like the real thing)
- Pottery Barn (I love this hydrangea, cedar topiaries, geraniums, boxwoods)
- Afloral (Their selection is fantastic! Petunias, lilac stems in white and pink, cherry blosoms and so much more.)
Keep an eye out for sales and seasonal discounts to score even better deals.
Last, If you prefer a more hands-on shopping experience, garden centers and home improvement stores are also good places to look. These stores typically carry outdoor-rated faux plants designed to withstand various weather conditions.
SHOP THE POST:
I put all the links right here so it’s easy for you to find everything. Just tap on what you like, and it’ll take you straight to the store to check it out!
Shopping Tips:
Read the Reviews: Make sure to read reviews and check customer photos to ensure the quality matches your expectations.
Pay Attention to Detail: Remember, the key to finding realistic-looking faux plants is to pay attention to details. Look for plants with textured leaves, natural color variations, and even a few imperfections to make them appear more lifelike.
With a bit of patience and some savvy shopping, you can find the perfect artificial plants to enhance your outdoor space beautifully.
Caring for Your Artificial Outdoor Plants
Maintaining your artificial outdoor plants is a breeze compared to real ones, but a little upkeep helps them stay in top shape.
Dust Regularly: To keep them looking fresh, give them a regular dusting with a soft cloth or brush but I have an even better idea.
Quick Clean with Spray: My favorite way to keep outdoor plants dust-free is a spritz of artificial plant cleaner—like Design Master’s Silk Flower Cleaner.
It lifts dust without wiping, dries clear, and works beautifully on UV-resistant plants too. I’ve used it for years on both indoor and outdoor pieces!
Wash with Soap & Water: For plants exposed to outdoor elements, a gentle wash with mild soap and water can do wonders to remove any accumulated dirt or grime.
Refresh with Hose: If your faux plants start to look a bit dull, don’t hesitate to rinse them off with a hose. Just make sure to let them dry completely before placing them back in their pots or planters.
Tackle Tough Spots: For more stubborn spots, a mixture of water and white vinegar can help lift away any residue without damaging the plant.
Fix Minor Damage: In addition to cleaning, periodically check for any loose or damaged parts. A little bit of super glue can usually fix minor issues and keep your plants looking as good as new.
Protect From Harsh Weather: During extreme weather conditions, it might be a good idea to bring your artificial plants inside to prevent any potential damage.
Store with Care: Lastly, store your faux plants in a cool, dry place when not in use. This will help prolong their life and keep them looking vibrant for seasons to come.
With these simple steps, you’ll ensure that your artificial greenery remains a stunning feature in your outdoor space.
Design Ideas for Using Faux Plants in Outdoor Spaces
Mix Greenery and Blooms: Faux plants offer endless ways to spruce up your outdoor spaces creatively. Mix different types of greenery and flowers to craft dynamic and visually appealing planter displays.
Blend Faux with Real: Combine artificial ferns or any greenery with real flowers for an intriguing mix of textures and colors. Here is an example of mixing this real lavendar topiary with the artificial cosmo flowers.
Add Height for Privacy: Use tall faux plants to create a natural-looking privacy screen or section off areas on your patio or balcony.
Create Focal Points: Artificial topiaries can serve as striking focal points at the entrance or along walkways.
Use Vertical Elements: You can even add faux hanging plants, garlands, or vines to pergolas or trellises for a lush, cascading effect.
Decorate Hard to Reach Spots: For those hard-to-reach spots or areas with less sunlight, faux plants are the perfect low-maintenance solution.
Play with Size and Shape: Play around with various sizes and shapes to keep your decor fresh and inviting.
Final Thoughts
Artificial plants for outdoor planters are a game-changer for anyone who loves the look of greenery but doesn't have the time or green thumb to maintain real plants. The key is to select uv resistant high-quality, realistic options that blend seamlessly into your outdoor decor.
The versatility of faux plants allows for endless creative possibilities. Whether you’re using them to add a pop of color to your patio, create privacy on your balcony, or simply fill in those tricky spots where real plants struggle, artificial greenery can do it all.
So go ahead and explore the wonderful world of faux plants. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a lush, green outdoor space that looks fantastic year-round.
Looking for More Inspiration?
Looking for more outdoor decor inspiration? Check out these posts:
- Beautiful Front Porch Flower Ideas to Enhance Your Curb Appeal
- Best Farmhouse Porch Decorating Ideas to Brighten Up Your Outdoors
Happy Decorating!
The best way to clean faux plants and flowers is to spray them with 409, let it sit for about 60 seconds, and then spray water on them until they are dusted. This is a quick and easy way to rejuvenate faux plants and flowers. If the plant is small enough, it could be done in the kitchen, but if it is large, it needs to be done outdoors.