{"id":128583,"date":"2026-04-26T20:13:40","date_gmt":"2026-04-26T13:13:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ostrali.com\/home\/?p=128583"},"modified":"2026-04-26T20:13:40","modified_gmt":"2026-04-26T13:13:40","slug":"plant-shelf-without-clutter","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ostrali.com\/home\/plant-shelf-without-clutter\/","title":{"rendered":"31+ Plant Shelf Without Clutter Ideas for a Fresh Look"},"content":{"rendered":"

Plant shelves can feel calm and lively at the same time. The trick is keeping them neat enough to shine.<\/p>\n

1. Keep a Tight Color Story<\/h2>\n
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Keep a Tight Color Story<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Pick pots in a small color family so the shelf feels soft and clean. White, clay, and warm green can make the plants stand out without extra noise.<\/p>\n

This look works well in small rooms because the eye moves easily across the shelf. It also helps mixed plants feel like one happy group instead of a busy crowd.<\/p>\n

2. Use Matching Pots with Different Plant Shapes<\/h2>\n
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Use Matching Pots with Different Plant Shapes<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Matching pots create a tidy line that feels calm right away. When the pots match, the leaves become the star of the show.<\/p>\n

Try tall plants beside round ones for a little shape play. This keeps the shelf interesting while still looking organized.<\/p>\n

Simple nursery pots can work if you hide them inside pretty covers. That can save money and still give you a polished look.<\/p>\n

3. Leave Breathing Room Between Each Plant<\/h2>\n
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Leave Breathing Room Between Each Plant<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Space between pots gives each plant room to shine. A shelf with open gaps often looks fancier than one packed full.<\/p>\n

This also helps with plant care because air can move around the leaves. If you like a clean modern style, this is an easy win.<\/p>\n

Start with fewer plants than you think you need and add only if the shelf still feels calm. A little empty space can make the whole display feel fresh and bright.<\/p>\n

4. Mix One Statement Plant with Smaller Friends<\/h2>\n
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Mix One Statement Plant with Smaller Friends<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

A big leafy plant can anchor the shelf and make it feel special. Smaller plants around it add charm without stealing the spotlight.<\/p>\n

This balance keeps the shelf from looking cluttered. It also gives you a strong focal point that feels natural and warm.<\/p>\n

5. Add a Single Stack of Books<\/h2>\n
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Add a Single Stack of Books<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Books can lift a plant up and create a layered look. A small stack also adds personality without bringing in too much stuff.<\/p>\n

Choose covers that fit your shelf colors for a neat finish. Old hardcovers or thrifted books can keep the cost low and the style high.<\/p>\n

This idea works especially well with trailing plants, since the leaves can spill over the edge. It gives the shelf a lived-in feel that still looks planned.<\/p>\n

6. Use Clear Glass or Light Ceramic Planters<\/h2>\n
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Use Clear Glass or Light Ceramic Planters<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Clear glass or soft ceramic planters keep the shelf feeling airy. They let the green leaves take center stage and make the space feel open.<\/p>\n

These materials pair nicely with many home styles, from modern to cozy cottage. If you want a fresh look that feels current, this is a smart choice.<\/p>\n

Glass jars can even be a low-cost option for small cuttings. Just make sure they are clean and simple so the shelf stays neat.<\/p>\n

7. Group Plants by Height<\/h2>\n
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Group Plants by Height<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

When plants rise and fall in a gentle line, the shelf looks organized. This makes the display feel easy on the eyes instead of messy.<\/p>\n

Place taller pots in back and shorter ones in front if the shelf is deep enough. The layered view adds depth and helps every plant get noticed.<\/p>\n

You can use small risers, books, or boxes to create the height you need. That makes the setup feel custom without needing fancy pieces.<\/p>\n

For a personal touch, mix one unusual pot shape into the group. A little surprise can make the whole display feel more like you.<\/p>\n

8. Choose One Shelf for One Plant Type<\/h2>\n
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Choose One Shelf for One Plant Type<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

A shelf full of only succulents or only ferns can look very calm. Repeating the same plant type gives the display a strong, clean rhythm.<\/p>\n

This style is easy to care for because the plants usually like similar light and water. It also feels modern and neat, which is great for busy homes.<\/p>\n

If you want more personality, vary the pot sizes instead of the plant types. That keeps the shelf simple while still giving it life and movement.<\/p>\n

9. Use Hidden Storage Under the Shelf<\/h2>\n
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Use Hidden Storage Under the Shelf<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Clutter often comes from plant tools, not the plants themselves. Baskets or boxes below the shelf can hide extras and keep the top looking fresh.<\/p>\n

This is a smart way to store spray bottles, plant food, and spare labels. It also makes the whole area feel more peaceful and easier to clean.<\/p>\n

Woven bins bring warmth, while metal boxes feel more crisp and modern. Pick the style that matches your room so the whole setup feels joined together.<\/p>\n

10. Add a Small Mirror Behind the Plants<\/h2>\n
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Add a Small Mirror Behind the Plants<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

A mirror can make a plant shelf look bigger and brighter. It reflects light and gives the greens a fuller, richer look.<\/p>\n

This trick works well in small apartments or darker corners. It also adds a bit of style without adding more objects to the shelf.<\/p>\n

Choose a plain mirror frame so the plants stay in charge. A thrifted mirror can be a cheap and charming way to get the look.<\/p>\n

11. Keep Only Healthy, Full Plants on Display<\/h2>\n
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Keep Only Healthy, Full Plants on Display<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Fresh-looking shelves often come from careful plant choices. Full, healthy leaves make the whole setup feel clean and cared for.<\/p>\n

If a plant is bare or struggling, move it to a recovery spot. That keeps the shelf looking neat and gives the plant a better chance to bounce back.<\/p>\n

Rotate plants as they grow so the shelf always looks balanced. This simple habit can make your display feel new without buying anything extra.<\/p>\n

It is also a nice way to show off seasonal favorites. A shelf that changes a little over time feels personal and alive.<\/p>\n

12. Style with a Few Natural Textures<\/h2>\n
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Style with a Few Natural Textures<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Wood, clay, and woven pieces bring warmth to a plant shelf. These textures make the greenery feel cozy instead of crowded.<\/p>\n

Keep the mix small so the shelf still feels open. One wooden tray or one woven basket is often enough to add charm.<\/p>\n

Natural textures are popular right now because they feel calm and homey. They also work well with nearly every plant color and leaf shape.<\/p>\n

13. Use a Tray to Group Small Items<\/h2>\n
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Use a Tray to Group Small Items<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

A tray can turn tiny things into one neat display. It helps small pots, misting tools, or crystals feel organized instead of scattered.<\/p>\n

This is a great way to keep a shelf from looking busy. A tray also makes cleaning easier because you can lift one piece instead of many.<\/p>\n

Choose a tray with a simple shape and a finish that fits your room. Wood, stone, and metal all work well depending on the mood you want.<\/p>\n

For a personal touch, place one tiny keepsake beside the plants. Just keep it small so the shelf stays fresh and uncluttered.<\/p>\n

14. Try a Floating Shelf with a Clean Line<\/h2>\n
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Try a Floating Shelf with a Clean Line<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Floating shelves can make plants look like they are part of the wall. The open space below helps the room feel bigger and less crowded.<\/p>\n

This style is great for a fresh, modern look. It also makes it easy to build a simple plant display without heavy furniture.<\/p>\n

Keep the shelf decor light so the wall does not feel packed. A few pots, one book, and maybe a small framed print can be enough.<\/p>\n

If you like DIY projects, this can be a budget-friendly choice. Plain wood shelves can be stained or painted to match your home.<\/p>\n

15. Add One Hanging Plant Near the Shelf<\/h2>\n
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Add One Hanging Plant Near the Shelf<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

A hanging plant can soften the edges of a shelf and make the whole area feel lush. The trailing leaves add movement without taking up shelf space.<\/p>\n

This is a smart way to keep clutter down while still adding more green. It also helps break up straight lines and makes the display feel natural.<\/p>\n

Choose a plant with long vines if you want a soft, flowing look. A simple hook or hanger can make the setup feel special without much cost.<\/p>\n

Keep the hanging piece close enough to connect with the shelf, but not so close that it feels crowded. That balance gives the area a fresh and airy feel.<\/p>\n

16. Stick to Odd Numbers in Small Groups<\/h2>\n
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Stick to Odd Numbers in Small Groups<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Small groups of plants often look better when the count feels uneven. Odd groupings can make a shelf seem more relaxed and less staged.<\/p>\n

This is a classic styling trick that still feels current. It helps the eye move in a natural way across the display.<\/p>\n

Use three small pots or five cuttings if the shelf is wide enough. Keep the colors close together so the group stays neat.<\/p>\n

17. Use One Bold Pot as the Star<\/h2>\n
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Use One Bold Pot as the Star<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

A single bold pot can bring life to a quiet shelf. It adds a pop of color or pattern without making the whole space loud.<\/p>\n

This works best when the rest of the shelf stays simple. The bold piece becomes the focus and keeps the display from feeling flat.<\/p>\n

You can shop secondhand or paint a plain pot to save money. That gives you a custom look without a big price tag.<\/p>\n

Try a matte finish, a soft stripe, or a hand-painted design for something unique. Just keep the rest of the shelf calm so the star piece can shine.<\/p>\n

18. Keep Tools Out of Sight<\/h2>\n
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Keep Tools Out of Sight<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Plant shears, tags, and watering cans can make a shelf look busy fast. Tucking them away keeps the display clean and more relaxing to look at.<\/p>\n

A small cabinet, basket, or drawer nearby can solve the problem. This also makes your plant care routine faster because everything has a home.<\/p>\n

If you want the tools nearby, choose ones in matching colors. That way they feel like part of the decor instead of clutter.<\/p>\n

Pretty tools are a growing trend because they make chores feel nicer. Even so, the best shelf is still one that looks calm and easy.<\/p>\n

19. Create a Shelf with Only Cuttings<\/h2>\n
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Create a Shelf with Only Cuttings<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Cuttings in small jars can look delicate and fresh. The see-through containers add a light feel that works well in tight spaces.<\/p>\n

This style is great for plant lovers who enjoy watching roots grow. It also costs less than filling the shelf with full-size pots.<\/p>\n

Use a few jars with similar shapes so the setup stays tidy. A narrow tray can help keep the jars lined up and easy to move.<\/p>\n

You can label the jars if you want a more collected look. Simple labels add charm without adding clutter.<\/p>\n

20. Add Wall Art That Stays Quiet<\/h2>\n
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Add Wall Art That Stays Quiet<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Soft wall art behind a shelf can make plants feel finished. Choose simple prints so the wall supports the display instead of fighting it.<\/p>\n

This can help a shelf feel more like a styled corner than a random spot. It also gives your plants a backdrop that makes their color pop.<\/p>\n

Line drawings, small landscapes, and muted shapes are all good choices. They keep the room calm and let the leaves stay in focus.<\/p>\n

If you already have art at home, use what you own before buying more. Reusing pieces is a smart way to keep costs down and style up.<\/p>\n

21. Make One Shelf the \u201cFavorite Shelf\u201d<\/h2>\n
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Make One Shelf the \u201cFavorite Shelf\u201d<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Giving one shelf a special role can help the whole area stay neat. It becomes the place for your best plants and your cleanest styling ideas.<\/p>\n

This keeps random objects from spreading across every shelf. It also makes the display feel intentional and easy to update.<\/p>\n

Try using your most eye-catching pot, your healthiest plant, and one small accent. That mix is enough to make the shelf feel complete.<\/p>\n

A favorite shelf can change with the season or your mood. That flexibility makes it fun without turning into clutter.<\/p>\n

22. Use Low, Wide Planters<\/h2>\n
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Use Low, Wide Planters<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Low planters give plants a grounded, calm look. They spread the green out instead of making the shelf feel tall and crowded.<\/p>\n

This style is especially nice for herbs, succulents, and small trailing plants. It can make a shelf feel modern and very easy to live with.<\/p>\n

Wide shapes also help the shelf look balanced when the wall space is long. If you want a clean line, this is a strong choice.<\/p>\n

For a budget option, look for simple bowls or shallow dishes. Just be sure they have good drainage or use a liner inside.<\/p>\n

23. Keep Labels Small and Neat<\/h2>\n
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Keep Labels Small and Neat<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Plant labels can be useful, but big ones can clutter a shelf fast. Small labels keep the display tidy while still helping you remember each plant.<\/p>\n

Wooden sticks, tiny tags, or slim metal markers can all work well. They add a little detail without taking over the look.<\/p>\n

This is a great idea if you love collecting many plant types. It gives the shelf a smart, organized feel that still looks pretty.<\/p>\n

Handwritten labels can add a personal touch and cost almost nothing. Just keep the writing simple so the shelf stays clean.<\/p>\n

24. Use a Monochrome Look<\/h2>\n
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Use a Monochrome Look<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

One color family can make a plant shelf feel very calm. Shades of green, cream, or terracotta can create a smooth and restful look.<\/p>\n

This style is easy to pull together because the items do not need to match perfectly. They just need to feel close enough to belong together.<\/p>\n

Monochrome shelves are popular because they look neat in photos and in real life. They also make the leaves seem richer and more alive.<\/p>\n

To keep it from feeling flat, mix matte and shiny finishes. That small change adds interest without adding clutter.<\/p>\n

25. Place Plants in a Gentle Arc<\/h2>\n
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Place Plants in a Gentle Arc<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Arranging plants in a soft curve can make the shelf feel more natural. The eye follows the arc, which helps the display seem smooth and easy.<\/p>\n

This layout is helpful if your shelf is long or wide. It breaks up the straight line and adds a bit of motion without extra objects.<\/p>\n

Use taller plants near the middle and shorter ones toward the sides. That shape feels balanced and friendly.<\/p>\n

You can personalize the arc by adding one special pot at the center. A favorite piece can anchor the whole look.<\/p>\n

26. Add One Small Sculpture or Object<\/h2>\n
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Add One Small Sculpture or Object<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

A tiny sculpture can give a plant shelf character without crowding it. It adds a little artful touch that feels thoughtful and fresh.<\/p>\n

Pick one object only, so the shelf stays open and calm. A stone bird, tiny bust, or simple ceramic shape can work well.<\/p>\n

This is a nice way to show your style without using more plants. It makes the display feel collected rather than packed.<\/p>\n

Thrift stores are a great place to find low-cost pieces with charm. Just choose something that does not compete with the plants.<\/p>\n

27. Keep the Back Row Simple<\/h2>\n
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Keep the Back Row Simple<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

The back row of a shelf can get messy fast if too much is packed there. A simple back row helps the front plants stand out and keeps the whole display easy to read.<\/p>\n

Use the back for taller, cleaner shapes and leave the front for softer plants. This creates a layered look that feels full but not crowded.<\/p>\n

It also makes watering and pruning easier because each plant is easier to reach. That can save time and keep the shelf looking neat longer.<\/p>\n

If the shelf is deep, try only two layers instead of three. Fewer layers often look better and feel more modern.<\/p>\n

28. Add a Small Light Source<\/h2>\n
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Add a Small Light Source<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

A small lamp or clip light can make plant shelves glow at night. Warm light brings out the green and gives the room a cozy feel.<\/p>\n

This is especially helpful in darker corners where plants and decor can fade into the wall. The light adds mood without adding clutter.<\/p>\n

Choose a light with a simple shape so it blends in with the shelf. Soft brass, white, or black finishes are easy to style.<\/p>\n

LED options can keep costs and energy use low. They are a practical pick for people who want style and function together.<\/p>\n

29. Use Baskets for Trailing Plants<\/h2>\n
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Use Baskets for Trailing Plants<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Baskets can hide plain nursery pots while giving trailing plants a warm, natural home. The woven texture adds interest without making the shelf feel busy.<\/p>\n

This is a good way to soften hard shelf edges. It also gives the plants a relaxed look that feels cozy and current.<\/p>\n

Pick baskets that fit the shelf size so they do not crowd the space. A basket that is too large can make the whole display feel heavy.<\/p>\n

If you want to save money, look for baskets at secondhand shops or discount stores. A simple basket can do a lot of work for very little cost.<\/p>\n

30. Leave One Shelf Almost Empty<\/h2>\n
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Leave One Shelf Almost Empty<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

An almost empty shelf can make the rest of the display look even better. The open space gives your eyes a rest and keeps the area from feeling packed.<\/p>\n

This idea works well in rooms that already have a lot going on. It brings balance and makes the plant shelf feel calm and intentional.<\/p>\n

You can still add one small pot or one framed photo if the shelf needs a touch of life. Just keep it light so the space can breathe.<\/p>\n

People often think more items mean more style, but that is not always true. A little restraint can make a plant shelf feel fresh and modern.<\/p>\n

31. Choose Plants with Similar Leaf Texture<\/h2>\n
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Choose Plants with Similar Leaf Texture<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Plants with similar leaf texture can make a shelf feel smooth and connected. Soft, glossy, or feathery leaves create a repeating look that feels neat.<\/p>\n

This is a simple way to build unity without using matching pots. The plants themselves do the styling work for you.<\/p>\n

Try grouping plants with broad leaves or fine leaves together for a clear effect. That gives the shelf a special mood that feels thoughtful.<\/p>\n

It also helps the display look less random, which is useful if you love collecting many kinds. A strong texture theme can keep the shelf from feeling cluttered.<\/p>\n

32. Refresh with Seasonal Touches Only<\/h2>\n
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Refresh with Seasonal Touches Only<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Small seasonal touches can keep a plant shelf feeling new without piling on decor. A tiny candle, a sprig, or a simple color swap can be enough.<\/p>\n

This keeps the shelf lively while still holding onto a clean look. It is a nice way to match the room to the time of year without buying too much.<\/p>\n

Use one seasonal item at a time so the plants remain the main focus. That way the shelf stays fresh, not crowded.<\/p>\n

Personal touches make the biggest difference here, from a favorite little vase to a handmade tag. When the shelf feels like your own, it always looks better.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

32 Plant Shelf Without Clutter Ideas for a Fresh Look offer creative ways to organize and showcase your greenery effortlessly and stylishly<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":144461,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"iawp_total_views":21,"footnotes":""},"categories":[219],"tags":[225],"internal_tag":[],"class_list":["post-128583","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-ostrali","tag-plant-shelf"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ostrali.com\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/128583","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ostrali.com\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ostrali.com\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ostrali.com\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ostrali.com\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=128583"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/ostrali.com\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/128583\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":146116,"href":"https:\/\/ostrali.com\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/128583\/revisions\/146116"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ostrali.com\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/144461"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ostrali.com\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=128583"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ostrali.com\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=128583"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ostrali.com\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=128583"},{"taxonomy":"internal_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ostrali.com\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/internal_tag?post=128583"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}