DIY Basics: Gold Patterned Cactus Planters

Have the itch to get crafty after all those creative DIY planters we posted? This ought to solve that! We have an easy DIY for you today to make planters using cacti and one of our favorite materials: gold paint.

We go crazy for gold paint on almost anything; you have probably seen us use it on past projects like these adorable gold animals and these gold tipped ballet flats. So get out your trusty gold paint and let's get going on these awesome cactus planters.

Materials:

white square planters

painters tape

Gold Leaf Paint (available at most craft supply stores such as Michael's)

small standard sponge brush

small round sponge brush

small cactus plants

cactus soil

bag of white gardening pebbles

Tools:

– pencil

– ruler

You can use any cactus or succulent your local gardening store has in stock, but you can see we choose to use some fun neon ones as well as some crazy balloon shaped ones.

To create the stripes (we're digging nautical stripes for hot spring and summer fashion), simply wrap painters tape around the vase and use a sponge brush to paint the gold on the white areas.

To create the diagonal stripes, apply the painters tape in a diagonal and then paint in between just the middle white space created on each side. Feel free to create your own patterns using the tape.

To create the perfect polka dot pattern, use a ruler to mark off every inch on each side of the vase so you have even horizontal rows. Then along the first of those rows, mark a little star at the odd numbered inches (1 inche, 3 inches, & 5 inches).

On the next row, mark a little star at the even numbered inches (2 inches and 4 inches). If your vase is bigger, you could continue these markings based on those patterns.

Then load your circle sponge brush with gold paint and stamp it at each star. After they dry, erase any pencil marks still showing. Pro tip: press, hold, and slightly twist the brush in place to guarantee perfect paint coverage for each circle.

Don't they look awesome all on their own? You could fill yours with anything – fresh cut flowers, pencils, serving utensils, candy – the options on endless.

To plant yours with succulents like we did, put a scoop of pebbles at the bottom of each (to drain the water from the soil), then a scoop of cactus soil.

Next up, carefully empty your cacti from their containers. Don't prick yourself! Gently break apart the soil and roots a bit to help it grow into it's new home.

To finish your planters, pour cactus soil around any empty space and place white gardening pebbles on top.

All done! Just make sure they get a few hours of sunlight and water them about once a week. These are cacti – so don't overwater :)

These look great anywhere, but one of my fave things about this gold paint it reflects light. It will bounce back the light of any nearby tea lights or candles beautifully creating instant party ambiance. We wouldn't be able to show you this party ambience (or any of these other images for that matter) without a great photographer – so many thanks and big hugs to Chelsea Mitchell for capturing these lovely images to show you!

If you think making these are a breeze, don't forget to try making the Marbleized Planters and the Floppy Disk Planters.

What other patterns did you come up for painting your planters? Did you put anything else in them besides succulents? Talk to us in the comments below.

Less is more when it comes to landscaping. While there’s something charming about old-fashioned backyards — the kind of lush, picture-perfect spaces reminiscent of a bygone era — they can be really expensive to maintain. Here are some of the most high-maintenance backyard features that will keep your garden looking classic, but at a cost. If you’re still into these old-school garden elements but want to avoid the upkeep, consider modern swaps like drought-resistant plants or low-maintenance hedging options so you can relax and enjoy rather spend and constantly maintain.

10 old-fashioned landscaping ideas that are too expensive to upkeep.

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1. Boxwood Hedges

Perfectly sculpted boxwood hedges offer privacy and give a sense of poshness to a garden. However, maintaining them requires frequent pruning, they're prone to pests like boxwood blight, and trimming services can add up quickly. Instead, look for low-maintenance hedges like viburnum, common box, and cherry laurel.

Kenneth COSSIN

2. Koi Ponds

A serene koi pond with a water feature requires constant upkeep — regular water testing, filtration maintenance, and fish care (including specialized diets, temp control, and vet care!).

Photo by Elle Hughes

3. Rose Gardens

Traditional rose gardens are lovely when maintained properly but they require constant attention. They need proper pruning, fertilizing, pest control, and are prone to disease. Roses are highly susceptible to black spot, powdery mildew, and aphids, making them a pretty demanding plant. I gave up my roses for drought-tolerant plants and olive trees in my California garden.

Annie Gavin

4. Cobblestone or Brick Pathways

Over time, moss and weeds grow between the stones and brick, creating slippery surfaces and requiring frequent cleaning. Frost heaving and settling can create uneven surfaces here too, which can be costly to repair. Gravel and mulch are low-budget options that can still look great and don't require a lot of upkeep in the garden.

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5. Topiaries

Shaping plants into whimsical topiaries is not for the faint of heart — or wallet. These sculpted plants demand expert trimming, precise watering, and protection from harsh weather. Hiring a professional topiarist can be an ongoing and expensive commitment for more elaborate topiaries, like animal shapes and other artistic sculpting.

Wayfair

6. Traditional Fountains

A grand fountain can be the focal point of a traditional backyard, but keeping it in pristine condition requires frequent cleaning, water treatment, and pump maintenance. Algae buildup, clogged filters, and winter freezing can all lead to costly repairs and upkeep.

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7. Ornate Ironwork

Iron is prone to rust, meaning you'll need to endure frequent sanding, priming, and repainting to keep them looking polished and pristine, which can get tiresome over time.

Pankaj Shah

8. Massive Lawns

I replaced an uncomfortable, and frankly ugly, rock lawn with a small grass lawn for my kiddo and dog to enjoy and my water bill quadrupled! A sprawling, perfectly green lawn is a major water guzzler. Keeping it lush requires constant mowing, fertilizing, aeration, and irrigation. Consider more mulch and gravel than grass.

Wayfair

9. Gazebos or Pergolas

Maintaining wooden structures like gazebos means regular staining, sealing, and repairs to prevent weather-related wear and tear. If made from natural wood, they’re especially vulnerable to rot, termites, and warping. Look for more weather-resistant protection or plant more shade trees.

Wayfair

10. Plastic Edging

Plastic and gardens don't make an ideal match. Plastic edging may seem like a quick fix, but it's often frustrating to install, prone to shifting over time, and can lead to weed crossover and untidy borders. While affordable upfront, its short lifespan makes it a poor long-term investment. Opt for sustainable alternatives that not only last but also prevent microplastics from contaminating your soil.

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Spring has officially bloomed because Target & Kate Spade New York are dropping a refreshing collection that will be all over TikTok and Instagram soon. We haven't been this excited for a fashion collab since J. Crew & Christopher John Rogers, so we're aching to share all the fascinating news about it. Ready to see what's in store?

Keep scrolling to learn everything about the Target & Kate Spade New York collection!

What can I expect from the Target & Kate Spade New York collection?

Target

This limited edition collection will feature the brightest, boldest colors and prints you can think of. From fuchsia to polka dots, shoppers will can get a taste of luxury without spending an exuberant amount of money. Plus, the pieces are functional and work for an array of situations.

Hosting a spring soirée at home or plan on lounging by the pool The White Lotus-style? The Target & Kate Spade New York collection has everything you need.

Will it only have women's apparel?

Target

It brings us great pleasure to say no! Everyone will be able to find something they love in this collection because it features women's & kids apparel, home decor, chic accessories, and party decor.

How big is the collection overall?

Target

It seems like Target & Kate Spade New York are anticipating people having a ton of fun this spring because they have over 300 items shoppers can choose from. There's even games you'll be able to buy and put out for guests at the next barbecue you're invited to!

When can I shop the Target & Kate Spade New York collection?

Target

Get your carts and wallets ready because the Target & Kate Spade New York collection will be available to shop on Target.com Saturday, April 12.

Stay tuned to see our favorite pieces from the collection once it launches.

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Committing to a landscaping project can dramatically upgrade your home's curb appeal and boost its property value — it's an investment absolutely worth making. And you can do it in stages to suit your budget! Recently, I turned my all-rock front yard into a lush, multifunctional oasis. Now, it features distinct areas: a cozy pebble circle with Adirondack chairs perfect for reading, a grassy spot ideal for kids/dogs to play, and native plants and trees that beautifully frame and shade the space. This upgrade not only transformed my home's aesthetic but also significantly improved its functionality. We have so much more usable square footage now that had been off-limits because the rocks were SO uncomfortable to walk over. If you're ready for a landscaping upgrade, take my advice and make a design plan first — it could make your house look way more expensive in the long run.

Here are 14 landscaping tips to DIY a stunning front yard with expensive curb-appeal!

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1. Layer Your Plants

You can sketch out a plan based on your usable space and how you hope to use it. Place taller trees and shrubs toward the back, medium-sized plants in the middle, and low-growing flowers or ground cover like clover, creeping thyme, or moss to create a full, lush look.

Gautham Reghu

2. Grow Climbing Plants

Cover trellises and fences with climbing plants like jasmine or Bougainvillea, whatever suits your climate, to maximize green space and add visual interest to your front yard.

Omri Cohen

3. Plant Flowering Shrubs

Plant shrubs like hydrangeas, azaleas, or camellias that provide seasonal changes, like greenery in the cooler months and bursts of color come spring.

Dziana Hasanbekava

4. Choose a Variety of Textures and Colors

You'll want to mix different plant textures to add visual interest and depth to your landscaping. Some of the grasses, ground cover, flowers, and trees I used included White Fountain Grass, Lamb's Ear, Icelandic poppies, Bougainvillea (the peach variety), olive and lemon trees for my Northern California yard. My color palette was focused on the green and citrus color families. Talk to your local gardening store about plants that work best in your area and find ones that you love.

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5. Use Evergreen Plants for Structure

Planting evergreens like boxwood or juniper will help you maintain a lush appearance even during colder months while providing a structured framework for seasonal plants.

Derick McKinney

6. Plant Native and Drought-Resistant Plants

If you live in a drought-prone climate, look for plants that require minimal water and maintenance, such as succulents, lavender, or ornamental grasses.

Leeloo The First

7. Install Curved Garden Beds

If you have the space for it, design your landscaping with gently curved flower beds instead of straight lines to create a more organic look.

Amie Roussel

8. Grow Wildflowers

You won't regret converting a section of your yard into a wildflower meadow to attract pollinators and have pretty bouquets at full bloom. My daughter and I wanted to attract ladybugs and butterflies and chose our plants accordingly.

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9. Plants Edibles (No, Not That Kind)

Mix herbs, fruit-bearing plants, and veggies into your landscape for a sustainable and functional front yard that feeds your soul and your belly!

Jamie Hagan

10. Plant Shade Trees

Deciduous trees can provide shade, improve air quality, and reduce your home's energy costs by keeping it cooler in the summer.

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11. Add Porch Plants

Along the lines of layering your plants, porch plants hung from above, such as ferns, petunias, or ivy, add charm, texture, and a touch of nature to your outdoor space.

Ben Ashby

12. Create a Focal Point

Design around a statement piece such as a reading nook (in the case of my space), a bird bath, a sculptural tree like a Japanese maple, or for a more traditional look, a flower-filled urn, surrounded by lush plantings to draw the eye and anchor the design.

Lina Kivaka

13. Use Pots to Cover Concrete

Not blessed with a bed full of soil? No problem. Use potted plants to create an inviting, welcoming look to your front yard or steps.

Jason Leung

14. Add a Pop of Color

Painting your door a bright color to contrast with all the lush greenery can really make your landscaping pop and your home exterior look strikingly good.

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Fans have been enthralled by Outlander ever since it debuted in 2014 — hence why the show has gone on to have seven successful seasons, with the eighth and final season expected to premiere late this year or in 2026. Fans truly can't get enough of Claire and Jamie's great romance, and it doesn't have to completely end with season 8...or not exactly. Outlander prequel, Blood of My Blood comes out this summer and explores your favorite family from a very unique perspective. This is everything we know about Blood of My Blood!

Here's everything you need to know about the Outlander prequel, Blood of my Blood.

What's 'Outlander' about?

Starz

Outlander follows Claire Randall, a British Army nurse who, after serving in World War II, goes on a second honeymoon in Scotland with her husband, Frank. He is an MI6 officer preparing for a new career as an Oxford historian.

However, Claire's life takes a dramatic turn when she is mysteriously transported back to 1743, where her safety and freedom are at risk. In order to survive, she marries a strong and charismatic Scots warrior named Jamie Fraser. Then, as their relationship deepens, Claire finds herself torn between two very different men and two conflicting worlds.

How many seasons of 'Outlander' will there be?

Starz

Whether you're an OG fan of Outlander or a newcomer, many are upset about it coming to an end soon with Season 8. The good news is that you have a prequel series to look forward to, Outlander: Blood of My Blood.

What is the 'Outlander' prequel 'Blood of My Blood' about?

Starz

Outlander: Blood of My Blood explores two parallel origin stories: the romance between Jamie's parents, as well as Claire's parents' love story during the war. The show will highlight these two love stories, set in different time periods, as they unfold side by side.

Who's in the 'Outlander: Blood of My Blood' cast?

Starz

Hermione Corfield and Jeremy Irvine star as Julia Moriston and Henry Beauchamp; meanwhile, Harriet Slater and Jamie Roy play Ellen MacKenzie and Brian Fraser.

The rest of the cast includes:

  • Tony Curran, Rory Alexander
  • Séamus McLean Ross
  • Sam Retford
  • Conor MacNeill
  • Brian McCardie
  • Jhon Lumsden
  • Sara Vickers
  • Peter Mullan
  • Sally Messham
  • Terence Rae
  • Sadhbh Malin
  • Alisa Davidson

Is there a trailer for 'Outlander: Blood of My Blood'?

Starz

Back in January, Starz released a 52-second teaser trailer for the show on YouTube, and it's clear the Outlander prequel will be packed with just as much passion as the original series. Eager fans in the comment section seemed to agree, with many sharing their excitement for the new spinoff.

"I can't wait to see the two love stories that gave us our favorite love story," wrote one viewer.

"I am so obsessed with Outlander, and I'm so excited to keep watching it in a different light," added another.

"Outlander is a very beautiful but brutal story, and I hope this new spinoff series captures that magic as well," noted a third.

Where can I watch 'Outlander: Blood of My Blood'?

Starz

You can watch Blood of My Blood on Starz!

When does 'Outlander: Blood of My Blood' come out?

Starz

Outlander: Blood of My Blood is set to premiere summer 2025! We don't have an exact date right now, but we'll update you as soon as we do! In the meantime, you can revisit the original Outlander series. All seven seasons are available to stream on Hulu.

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I am undeniably a chocolate lover by nature, and aside from Christmas, Easter is one of my favoritesweet treat-centered holidays because all the festive egg- and bunny-shaped chocolates hit shelves, sparking my cravings (and teasing my wallet).

I’ve probably tried every kind of Easter chocolate under the sun, so I’m ranking the 5 I view as the most classic. All of these Easter chocolates are great in their own ways and will certainly satisfy anyone when added to their Easter basket, so take this ranking with a grain of salt.

Read on for my full ranking of the 5 best classic Easter chocolates.

Amazon

1. Cadbury Crème Eggs

When I think of Easter chocolates, my mind immediately goes to Cadbury Crème Eggs. They’re filled with a gooey fondant that is downright addictive. Once you break through the chocolate shell, you’re faced with a deliciously silky sugar concoction that, for me, feels really nostalgic to snack on since I’d get one in my Easter basket just about every year.

While some people may find ‘em too decadent, I think Cadbury Crème Eggs are the #1 Easter chocolate, hands-down, because they’re always tasty. We love a reliable treat – but you definitely do have to enjoy these one at a time since they’re undeniably rich.

Amazon

2. Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs

Next up on my (very subjective) ranking of Easter chocolates is none other than Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs! I’ll take Reese’s stunning peanut butter filling in any form I can have it, but the egg shape this treat takes on for Easter just makes it feel even more special.

Amazon

Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs totally master the perfect balance of chocolate and peanut butter, which can be a nice departure for my tastebuds from just straight-up chocolate, like the other Easter chocolates on this list. Thus, I’m placing it in the #2 spot.

Amazon

3. Easter M&M’s

I love me a colorful treat, and I love me some M&M’s – which is why the Easter M&M’s that come in the cutest pastels every April simply had to place somewhere this ranking.

Amazon

Though I don’t view these as the most show-stopping Easter chocolates (they’re quite literally the same as the regular M&M’s you can get year-round in flavor and form), they’re still a festive treat worth snagging from the store. By themselves, I have to put them in the #3 spot – though I’d consider granting more points if you give ‘em to me on top of a slice of Easter cake.

Amazon

4. Cadbury Mini Eggs

My note about colors also applies to the next Easter chocolate: Cadbury Mini Eggs. Decked out in adorable pastel candy shells, these egg-shaped chocolates always come around at Eastertime – though they’re not really the first thing I reach for. Though, when I do get my hands on them, I find that their small size makes them extremely snackable, and they disappear quite quickly.

Amazon

5. Chocolate Bunnies

I don't mean to be the Scrooge of Easter, but at this point, chocolate bunnies are so expected. I have eaten many in my lifetime, but they never truly blow me away. Don’t get me wrong: I still love chocolate, but there’s also something that feels so wrong when I bite off the bunny’s ears. And face. And body.

It would take a really great chocolate bunny to impress me – most ones I’ve had are lower in quality and vary in being too thick or too thin to bite into easily.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.