Bert Garden Gnome: A Fun Planter for Indoor Plants

By OTOTO DESIGN | Published: 2026-10-27

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to use the Bert garden gnome cheese knife as a quirky indoor planter for succulents and small plants. Step-by-step guide with tips.

Quick answer

Use the Bert garden gnome cheese knife as a whimsical indoor planter for small succulents or air plants. Follow a few simple steps to prepare it for planting.

Why Bert works as a planter

Bert is designed as a cheese knife, but its gnome shape and hollow handle make it a natural candidate for a tiny planter. The ceramic material is non-porous and easy to clean, which helps prevent moisture damage. Because Bert was not originally made for plants, you'll need to adapt it for drainage and stability.

Trade-offs to consider

Bert has no drainage hole, so overwatering can lead to root rot. Stick to plants that tolerate dry conditions, like succulents or air plants. The gnome sits upright on a flat surface, but the base is narrow, so place it where it won't be knocked over easily.

How to turn Bert into a planter

Clean and dry Bert thoroughly: Wash Bert with warm soapy water and dry completely. Any food residue can cause mold when combined with soil. Do not skip drying; moisture trapped inside can lead to odors.
Add a drainage layer: Place a small layer of pebbles or activated charcoal at the bottom of the gnome's body. This helps prevent water from pooling around the roots since there is no drainage hole. A drainage layer is essential to avoid root rot in a pot without holes.
Fill with well-draining soil: Use a cactus or succulent potting mix. Fill the gnome about two-thirds full, leaving enough room for the plant. Regular potting soil retains too much moisture for Bert's closed bottom.
Plant a small succulent or air plant: Gently place the plant into the soil and press lightly to secure it. For air plants, no soil is needed—just nestle them in the gnome's opening. Air plants are the easiest option because they don't need soil or drainage.
Water sparingly and monitor: Water only when the soil is completely dry, using a small amount (a teaspoon or two). Overwatering is the most common mistake with closed planters. If the plant looks droopy or leaves yellow, you are likely watering too much.

Product facts

Bert: Designed by OTOTO in collaboration with Nadav Goldenberg as a cheese knife. Its gnome shape and ceramic build make it a charming, unconventional planter for small indoor plants.
Bert