Mini Turtle Topiary

Vanessa D.
by Vanessa D.
5 Materials
After making a turtle for my garden, I decided it was time to make one for indoors. It needed to be on the smaller side so I couldn't use a hanging basket for the shell. Instead this smaller turtle planter is made entirely of wire, chicken wire, and moss.
I made the frame for the shell first with a circle of wire for the rim. Then half circles are added to it to make the bowl of the shell. Where they cross I tied them with lightweight florist wire.
After covering it with chicken wire, I filled my 'shell' with sphagnum moss and 'sewed' another piece of chicken wire in place with florist wire.
The head, tail and feet are all tubes of chicken wire stuffed with moss. They are attached to the shell using florist wire.
I chose an assortment of succulents. I went for a variety of size, color and texture.
I used snips to make a larger opening in the top of his shell.
I used my fingers to create a planting hole in the moss.
Because it's a small topiary, I planted just a few succulents at the top of his shell. I keep this topiary in a shallow saucer so the 'feet' don't scratch anything. To water, I wait until it's fully dried then add a bit of water to the saucer and the moss absorbs it.
Suggested materials:
  • Chicken wire
  • A heavier gauge wire for structure
  • Florist wire for assembly
See all materials
Vanessa D.
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